Repairing or Replacing Hardwood Floors: Ask Our Experts

 

With the rise of AI and user-generated content online — and plenty of conflicting advice on DIY forums — it’s not always easy to know who or what to trust. That’s why we’ve asked our in-house experts to weigh in on some of the most common questions around hardwood floor repair, maintenance, and installation. Here’s what you really need to know.

Repairing or Replacing Hardwood Floors: What’s the Best Option?

One of the most common concerns homeowners and professionals face is deciding whether to repair hardwood flooring or replace it entirely. The answer depends on a few key factors:

1. Assess the Damage
If only a few boards are affected by water damage, deep scratches, or stains, a partial replacement may be possible.

What the Experts Say:
“With water damage, it’s incredibly hard to assess the extent without removing a few boards in the affected area and around the edges. That’s because water travels through wood—it often goes deeper than what you can see.”

2. Matching New and Old Flooring
Matching new boards to existing ones can be tricky, especially with older floors that have aged and developed a patina.

What the Experts Say:
“When matching old and new, the first step is identifying the species of wood. From there, you can try to find standard boards or have custom ones made—which is something we specialise in. But matching the exact colour or finish is nearly impossible. Wood darkens with age, and finishes don’t behave the same on new boards. The best way is to sand both old and new boards together, then finish them all at once. Expect some variation—wood is a natural product.”

3. Structural Issues
Widespread warping, cupping, or rot typically means a full replacement is the better option.

4. Refinishing Potential
Minor surface damage? You may be able to sand and refinish the floors rather than replace them completely.

Preventing Wooden Doors from Splintering When Cutting

Splintering is a common issue when cutting wooden doors. These professional tips can help prevent it:

• Use Painter’s Tape: Apply tape along the cut line to reduce tear-out.
• Score the Cut Line: Lightly score the line with a utility knife before cutting.
• Use a Fine-Tooth Blade: A blade with more teeth creates a cleaner cut.
• Cut with the Finished Side Down: Depending on the saw, this helps minimise splintering.

How to Remove Stains from Old Hardwood Floors

Removing stains from hardwood can be tricky. Here are some common approaches:

• Water Stains: Try a baking soda and water mix, or lightly sand and refinish.
• Pet Stains: Apply hydrogen peroxide with a soft cloth; let it sit, then wipe away.
• Oil-Based Stains: Use warm water and dish soap to break down grease.
• Dark Stains: A diluted vinegar solution or oxalic acid can help lighten deeper marks.

What the Experts Say:
“There’s a lot of DIY advice out there, but we recommend caution—especially with older floors. You don’t know what products or sealants were used, and things might react badly. The safest way to remove stains is to sand or buff them out.”

Salvaging and Reusing Hardwood Flooring

Thinking about reusing hardwood you’ve removed? Follow these steps:

1. Remove Nails Carefully
Use a pry bar and lift gently to avoid damaging the boards.

2. Label Each Board
Keeping track of where each board came from may help—but…

What the Experts Say:
“Laying wood is all about getting a good staggered pattern. What worked in one room won’t always work in another, especially if the space is wider, narrower, or on a different level.”

3. Store Properly
Stack planks in a dry, climate-controlled space to prevent warping.

4. Refinish Before Reinstallation?

What the Experts Say:
“We actually recommend installing first, then sanding. That way the whole floor is level, and the finish looks uniform. Hand sanding boards individually can lead to uneven results.”

Questions to Ask a Hardwood Floor Refinishing Contractor

If you’re hiring a pro to refinish your floors, here are some smart questions to ask:

• What’s the price per square metre, and what does it include?

What the Experts Say:
“Standard refinishing starts at £55.00 + VAT per square metre. That includes sanding (no more than 0.5mm), gap-filling using resin mixed with wood dust, buffing, and applying 2 to 3 coats of Osmo Poly-x Oil or Bona Mega Lacquer.”

• How many sanding passes will be done?
• Do you use oil-based or water-based finishes?
• Will you fill all gaps or just spot-fill?
• How do you prevent dust from spreading to other rooms?
• Who handles removing/replacing baseboard covers?
• How do you protect trim and mouldings?
• Does the price change if the job takes longer?
• How long before furniture can go back in?

Essential Tools for Hardwood Floor Installation

You’ll need the right tools for a smooth install. Here’s a solid starter list:

• Flooring nailer
• Measuring tape and chalk line
• Table saw or circular saw
• Jigsaw (for corner cuts)
• Mallet and tapping block
• Moisture meter (for acclimation checks)

Key Installation Considerations

Acclimation Before Installation
Let the wood adjust to your space. Store it in the room for at least 72 hours to prevent warping.

Expansion Gaps
Leave about 1/4 inch around the edges to allow for natural expansion and contraction.

Flexible Adhesive vs. Nails?
There’s no single “right” method—both have pros and cons:

• Flexible Adhesive: Slower to apply, but allows for more natural movement and long-term stability.
• Nails: Quicker install and allows for some natural shifting but requires precision.

Underlayment Options

• Rosin Paper: Reduces squeaks, minimal moisture protection.
• Roofing Felt: Better moisture barrier, adds stability.

Splines for Direction Changes
Use splines when changing board direction. These can be bought or made. Let adhesive dry before continuing.

Sliding Glass Door Transitions
Leave a small expansion gap and cover it with transition moulding for a clean finish.

Need Expert Help?

While using online recourses and information to help you complete these tasks may seem like a good cost saving idea, there is no replacement for experience and expertise, whether you’re restoring existing floors or planning a brand-new installation, our team is here to help. Get in touch for advice, custom solutions, or hands-on support.