Many people mistakenly believe that their old, damaged wood floors need to be replaced. Wrong! There are many effective techniques for restoring wood floors and bringing them back to life with a little time, patience, and the right tools. Here are some tips for repairing and refinishing damaged wood floors:
- Evaluate the Damage
Check out the evidence of damage. Is the floor warped and buckled? If so, you may be dealing with a difficult situation where it is beyond seeking out repairs! If the floor appears to be structurally sound, consider what kind of damage it has. Scratches, stains, and dents are very common problems that can be easily addressed.
- Use an Extraction Instrument
Here’s a simple tool that can make the removal of damaged flooring much easier. Use a Popsicle stick, wooden dowel, flat-headed screwdriver, or even a hammer to extract the damaged pieces and glue from the floor. Remove all dirt and debris. Depending on the extent of the damage, this may be all you need to do.
- Examine the Area for Cracks
If you want to save money, you can remove any flooring which is cracked or warped. If you want to retain the damaged pieces, fill the cracks with a hardwood patching wood filler. Use a putty knife to smooth and press it into the cracks. Sand down the area with fine-grit sandpaper and wipe out any wood dust.
- Color Repair
Bare wood is more susceptible to moisture and other damage. Dyeing the wood may help protect it. This also gives it a fresh, new appearance. You can use a penetrating oil-based stain to bring back the natural color of your floor. You’ll need to soak the wood in a solution of color for at least 30 minutes and then allow it to dry.
- Polishing Solution
If the wood is not warped, you can use a light-colored abrasive compound to polish the floor. Use a soft cloth and buff the floor to a shine.
Professional contractors can repair and refinish damaged wood floors. They also have the right tools to tackle even the most challenging problem areas. You may want to think about hiring these professionals if you are unsure how to do floor repairs.
The average wood floor can be refinished and repaired. You need to be willing to put in the time, effort, and money necessary for the process. Use these tips the next time your wood floor is damaged.