Hello all, I am in the process of installing a new hard wood floor. The sub floor as stated above is 110 years old. Lets face facts it is not level, the area is 225 sqft. and to use a self leveling compound is just to expensive. The difference in height is about 3/4". I was thinking of building the new counters and island and then level the remaining floor. I don't know the best way to do this so any information will be greatly appreciated.

Bryan

To install a wood floor, it does not need to be "level" but it needs to be flat. The industry standard is flat to 3/16" in a 10' radius. So in theory, it can slope that 3/4" to one side, as long as the slope is flat, if that makes sense to you. However, if you need it to be "level/ on bubble", you can do several things, neither are easy. One is to install plywood and roofing shingles in the low spots, gradually feathering it up to the high area. At that point, you can either install your flooring or even better, install some 3/8" or 1/2" plywood over the entire area after you have filled in the low areas, tapering them up to level. Another method is to remove the subfloor and sister on some 2x6's alongside the existing joists. Then when installing the new 2x6's, you taper those up to achieve a level floor. Then either re-install the old subflooring or install new 3/4" plywood subflooring ( preferred ). Neither of these procedures are easy and both require careful measuring and good carpentry skills.

Think I would go the easier route. Use a 8 - 10 foot straight edge to identify the highs and lows in the subfloor. Pack the low areas , sand down the high areas, and install a minimun of 1/2 inch plywood over the now flattened sub-floor.

thanks for the ideas. New problem...from center of floor to one side only I have a 1.5" drop. this is going into bathroom. what is the best way to correct this problem?