Are you tired of looking at that unsightly damage on your laminate flooring? Well, fret no more! In this article, we'll show you exactly how to repair your laminate flooring, step by step.
From assessing the damage to gathering the necessary materials, we've got you covered. Say goodbye to chipped, scratched, or swollen laminate flooring and hello to a beautiful and flawless finish.
We’ll also share some of our tried and tested maintenance tips to keep your flooring looking its best for years to come.
Let's get started!
Step 1: Assessing the Damage
To assess the damage to your laminate flooring, carefully examine the affected area for any signs of wear, scratches, or water damage. Start by inspecting the surface for any visible scratches or scuffs. Use your fingers to feel for any rough patches or indentations.
Check the edges of the affected area to see if there are any signs of peeling or lifting. Look for any discolouration or swelling, as this could indicate water damage. Take note of any areas that appear dull or faded compared to the rest of the floor.
It's important to thoroughly assess the damage before proceeding with any repairs to ensure that you address all the issues properly.
Step 2: Gathering the Necessary Materials
Start by gathering all the necessary materials for repairing your laminate flooring. To ensure a successful repair, you'll need the following:
Tools:
- A circular saw or a jigsaw with a fine-tooth blade for cutting the replacement plank.
- A hammer and chisel for removing damaged planks.
- A pry bar or crowbar for lifting the planks.
- A vacuum cleaner to clean the area before and after the repair.
Materials:
- Replacement laminate planks that match the colour and style of your existing flooring.
- Underlayment foam or adhesive to secure the replacement plank.
- Wood glue or laminate flooring adhesive for bonding the planks together.
- Finishing nails or screws for reinforcement.
- Painter's tape for marking the damaged area and guiding the cutting process.
Having these materials ready will make the repair process smoother and more efficient.
Step 3: How To Repair Chipped Laminate Flooring
To effectively repair chipped laminate flooring, you'll frequently need to assess the damage and determine the best course of action. Start by examining the extent of the chip and inspecting the surrounding area for any additional damage.
If the chip is small and shallow, you may be able to fix it by using a laminate repair kit. These kits typically include a putty-like substance that you can apply to the chipped area, followed by a colour-matching marker or pencil to blend it in with the rest of the flooring.
For larger chips or when the kit isn't sufficient, you may need to replace the damaged plank entirely. Remember to keep spare planks on hand for such situations.
Step 4: How To Repair Scratched Laminate Flooring
First, assess the severity of the scratches on your laminate flooring. If the scratches are shallow and only affect the surface layer, you can try using a laminate floor repair kit. Here's what you need to do:
- Clean the scratched area thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- Apply the repair solution from the kit onto the scratches, following the manufacturer's instructions.
- Use a clean cloth to wipe off any excess solution and let it dry completely.
For deeper scratches that have penetrated the laminate, a more extensive repair may be necessary. Consider these steps:
- Fill the scratch with a matching-coloured laminate filler.
- Smooth the filler with a putty knife and let it dry.
- Lightly sand the filled area to even out the surface.
- Apply a laminate floor repair wax to protect the repaired area.
Using these techniques, you should be able to improve or eradicate the appearance of scratches on your laminate flooring.
Step 5: How To Repair Swollen Laminate Flooring
To repair swollen laminate flooring, you'll need to address the underlying cause of the swelling and take appropriate measures to fix it. Swollen laminate flooring is often the result of moisture or water damage.
The first step is to identify and eliminate the source of the moisture, whether it's a leaky pipe or excessive humidity. Once the source is resolved, you can begin the repair process.
Start by drying out the affected area using fans or dehumidifiers. If the swelling is minor, you may be able to fix it by gently tapping the swollen boards back into place using a rubber mallet. However, if the swelling is severe, you may need to replace the damaged boards altogether.
Remember to consult the manufacturer's instructions for specific guidance on repairing your laminate flooring.
Step 6: Replacing a Damaged Laminate Floor Plank
Once you’ve ascertained which plank(s) you need to replace, you may start the process.
You will need to start removing the skirting board and planks from the wall closest to the plank you need to remove and work your way until you’ve reached it and are able to take it away. Replace it with a correctly-sized plank and start replacing the rest of the flooring and accessories.
If the plank is too far from the wall, you may remove it by drilling a whole in the middle and cut to the edges until you’re able to lift all pieces. To place a new plank, cut the tongue off first and apply adhesive on the surface before carefully lining up the plank and pressing it down in place.
A hammer can be carefully used to help ensure the plank is fully in place. Make sure the area is wiped clean and evenly spread out some weight on top of the plank until the adhesive fully dries.
Step 7: Preventing Future Damage and Maintenance Tips
Take steps to safeguard your laminate flooring and keep it in optimal condition by implementing preventive measures and following these maintenance tips.
Clean regularly:
- Sweep or vacuum your laminate flooring to remove dirt and debris that can cause scratching and dulling of the surface.
- Use a microfibre mop or a damp cloth to clean up spills immediately. Avoid using excessive water, as it can seep into the seams and cause damage.
- Avoid using harsh cleaning agents or abrasive tools that can scratch or damage the laminate surface.
Protect against furniture damage:
- Place felt pads or furniture glides under the legs of your furniture to prevent scratches and dents.
- Lift heavy furniture instead of dragging it across the laminate flooring.
Minimise exposure to sunlight:
- Use blinds or curtains to protect your laminate flooring from excessive sunlight, which can cause fading and discolouration.
Control humidity levels:
- Install a dehumidifier or use a humidifier to keep moisture levels balanced, as excessive humidity can cause the laminate planks to warp or swell.
By being proactive and looking after your laminate flooring, you can ensure you get a longer-lasting product and save money on future repairs.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, repairing laminate flooring is a straightforward process that can be done with a few basic materials and techniques.
By assessing the damage, gathering the necessary materials, and following the step-by-step instructions for repairing chipped, scratched, or swollen laminate flooring, you can restore its original appearance and functionality.
Additionally, taking preventive measures and following maintenance tips will help to avoid future damage and keep your laminate flooring in great condition for years to come.
Learn More About Laminate Flooring
Need some extra advice? The team here at MGM Timber is always happy to help. Check out some of our other guides to laminate flooring, including:
Alternatively, get in touch with us for expert information & guidance. We’ll be happy to assist however we can.