Marion's Blog > Why Floor Leveling & Subfloor Installation Matter for Long-Lasting Results

Why Floor Leveling & Subfloor Installation Matter for Long-Lasting Results

Tuesday, August 26, 2025

When planning new flooring—whether it’s hardwood, laminate, vinyl, or carpet—most people get excited about colors, textures, and patterns. But there’s an often-overlooked step that truly determines how well that beautiful floor will perform: floor leveling and subfloor installation. A perfectly installed floor doesn’t just rely on top-layer materials; it requires a strong, even foundation underneath. Without it, even the most premium flooring can fail prematurely.

The hidden foundation of every floor

Think of your subfloor as the backbone of your flooring system. It creates a flat, stable base on which the visible flooring rests. If it’s uneven or weak, problems will eventually appear on the surface. From squeaks underfoot to planks shifting or tiles cracking, an unstable subfloor undermines all the time and money invested in your flooring project.

Why floor leveling is more than just “nice to have”

Floor leveling ensures that the surface beneath your flooring is smooth and consistent. Even slight dips or bumps can cause long-term headaches:

• For hardwood: Uneven surfaces can cause boards to separate or squeak.
• For laminate: Locking mechanisms may fail if the floor is not perfectly level.
• For vinyl and luxury vinyl planks (LVP): Any imperfections underneath can “telegraph” through, showing bumps or ridges.
• For carpet: High and low points in the subfloor can make carpet wear unevenly.
  

Leveling also protects against moisture issues, since dips can collect water or humidity, leading to warping, mold, or mildew.

How proper subfloor installation boosts durability

A well-installed subfloor supports the weight of daily life—furniture, foot traffic, and even pets running across the room. It reduces movement and flexing, which helps flooring products perform as they were designed.

Here’s why the subfloor is critical:

• Stability: Prevents shifting and buckling of planks or tiles.
• Longevity: Extends the life of your flooring by keeping it firmly supported.
• Comfort: Creates a smoother, quieter feel underfoot.
• Protection: Acts as a barrier between your flooring and the structural floor, reducing the risk of moisture intrusion.
  

Common issues when subfloors are ignored

Skipping or rushing through subfloor preparation can cause frustrating problems. Some of the most common include:

• Creaking or squeaking noises
• Cracked tile or grout lines
• Gaps between planks
• Premature wear and tear
• Difficulty with flooring warranties (many manufacturers require proper subfloor prep for coverage)
  

By addressing these issues upfront, homeowners save money and avoid the hassle of costly repairs later.

Materials that benefit most from a leveled base

Not all flooring reacts the same way to an uneven subfloor. Some materials demand extra attention:

• Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): Highly flexible, which means imperfections show easily.
• Engineered hardwood: Sensitive to shifts and can develop gaps or cupping.
• Laminate flooring: Requires precise locking systems that only work properly on flat surfaces.

Even resilient materials like carpet perform better and last longer with a properly leveled base.

How professionals ensure the job is done right

Flooring professionals use specialized tools to measure and correct uneven areas before installation. Methods may include sanding down high spots, filling low areas with leveling compounds, or installing new subfloor panels altogether. This process ensures the finished flooring looks seamless and performs as promised.

By investing in professional subfloor work, homeowners gain peace of mind knowing their flooring is supported for the long term.

Give your floors the strong foundation they deserve by visiting us today!

Flooring isn’t just about surface beauty—it’s about how well that surface stands the test of time. Floor leveling and subfloor installation create the foundation for success, helping to protect your investment and enhance everyday comfort. Whether you’re installing hardwood, carpet, vinyl, or laminate, taking time to prepare the base ensures that your floor will look and feel great for years to come.

At Marion's Carpet & Flooring Warehouses, our team of flooring experts understands that lasting beauty starts beneath the surface. Serving Portland, Wilsonville, and surrounding Oregon and Washington communities, we offer Oregon’s largest flooring inventory and the knowledge to install it the right way. Visit our showrooms or schedule a consultation to see how we can help create a foundation for floors you’ll love for a lifetime.