How to Level a Floor With Sleepers

Remove any flooring materials, such as carpet or tile, from the subfloor. Ensure that all protrusions, such as nails or screws, are removed from the floor. Use a long level to check the level of the subfloor. If the floor is not level, use a chalk line to mark the areas that need to be leveled.

Step 2: Attach sleepers

Install the first row of sleepers along the longest wall. Use screws or nails to secure sleepers every 16 inches on center to the floor joists. Make sure that the sleepers are level with each other. Attach remaining rows of sleepers parallel to the first row, spacing them 16 inches apart on center.

Step 3: Level the sleepers

Place shims or wedges between the sleepers and the subfloor to level them. Once the sleepers are level, secure them to the subfloor with nails or screws.

Step 4: Cover with plywood or OSB

Install 3/4-inch plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) over the sleepers. Make sure that the plywood sheets are flush with each other and there are no gaps. Secure the plywood to the sleepers with nails or screws every 8 inches.

Step 5: Sand the floor

Sand the plywood or OSB with a floor sander to smooth out any rough areas. Be sure to wear a dust mask while sanding.

Step 6: Clean the floor

Remove any dust from the floor with a vacuum cleaner.

Step 7: Install the flooring

Install the flooring material of your choice. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's installation instructions.

Tips

- Use a leveling compound instead of shims or wedges to level the sleepers if the subfloor is very uneven.

- Stagger the joints of the plywood or OSB so that they do not line up with each other. This will help to prevent the floor from buckling or warping.

- Before installing the flooring material, make sure that the plywood or OSB is completely dry.