How to Repair Water-Damaged Flooring

Learn how to repair water-damaged flooring with these tips and tricks from an expert. Find out what steps you need to take before attempting a repair.

How to Repair Water-Damaged Flooring

If your floor has been damaged by water, you may be able to repair it. Before attempting any repairs, make sure that the floor is completely dry. Use wet vacuums to clean large pools of water and install fans and dehumidifiers to dry out the rest of the moisture. If the subfloor isn't damaged and the affected area dries out in 24 to 48 hours, you can proceed with the repair.

Simply screw or nail boards that appear to be slightly raised back into place, but remove any water-damaged floorboards. Using a saw, cut out the damaged floorboards and lift them out with a crowbar. Then, nail the new boards to the floor. Before staining, sand the old boards and the replacement ones to match.

Once you have replaced the damaged boards, apply a polyurethane dye and finish. Laminate floors that have been water-damaged can also be repaired by removing damaged boards and replacing them with new ones. It is important to identify the water source and dry the subsoil if necessary to avoid having to replace them again in the near future.

Dennis Mackessy
Dennis Mackessy

Typical tv geek. Infuriatingly humble beer nerd. Unapologetic tv junkie. Hardcore beer trailblazer. Hipster-friendly tea specialist.