Signs that a floor is due for a bit of renovation include creaking, raised sections, or swelling damage from home flooding. Always do a close visual examination before beginning any home improvement involving floorboards.
For example, if a large section of hardwood is warped along a line, there may be an underlying problem such as a floor joist. If the floor is installed over a concrete slab foundation, it may be a problem with a plywood subfloor, engineered wood products, or sleepers.
In many cases, problems with wood floors arise from the same sources as creaking stairs because wood is an organic material. Usually, these problems can be repaired by the DIY homeowner; no need to call in a building contractor or handyman.
Cutting the Floorboards
There are two types of hardwood planks commonly found; square-edged and tongue-in-groove are traditional and common. Removing either type is basically the same, with just a bit of additional effort with the second kind.
First, set a circular saw blade depth to the exact thickness of the board. This is especially critical if floor joists are involved because pipes may be notched into them. Cut across the board at both ends. It will be necessary to finish the cut with a wood chisel and hammer to avoid damaging the adjoining planks. In some cases, a Roto-zip tool works well.
When working with tongue-in-groove stock, also saw down one edge as well.
Removing Damaged Floorboards
With square-edged boards, carefully pry up the end of the board. Then slip a piece of batten strip underneath it, perpendicular to the plank. This will allow standing on the free end of the plank to free the other end, similar to a swimming pool diving board.
Tongue-in-groove planks may be pried up from the side via the gap made by the circular saw blade.
Replace the Flooring
The trickiest part here is finding the best color match. If this is not possible to do, buy a slightly lighter shade and plan on some creative wood staining.
The proper dimension may also be an issue. If an exact match can't be found, buy a wider plank and cut to size.
The repair is finished up by securing the board with finish nails. Be sure to use a nail set to sink the nail heads 1/8” below the wood surface, apply custom wood putty, and sand down.
Subfloor Repair
In some circumstances, especially if the damage was done by water, plywood subfloor repair will have to be done. The easiest thing in this situation is to replace entire sheets of plywood. Otherwise, cut out and remove sections and repair as needed.
Kelly Smith - Kelly has over 30 years experience as a journeyman carpenter and 20 as a freelance writer and photographer.
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