If the board has been damaged by water, it will likely have cracked edges, bulged middle, and staining. A few simple floorboard repairscan remedy the problem. First, flatten the warped board using a palm sander. Next, remove the stains by using a solution of oxalic acid crystals and water. If stains cannot be removed with water, use chlorine or peroxide bleach. After 24 hours, stain the floorboard with the desired color.

If replacing the floorboard is not possible, you can always make relief cuts in the damaged board. To do this, cut a 2 cm-wide relief hole on each corner. Then, use a circular saw or chisel to remove the damaged floorboard. Once the repair is complete, replace the floorboard with the new one. Afterward, make sure to secure the replacement board to the joists. A good way to ensure the repair is a lasting one is to purchase new floorboards that have the same dimensions as the ones you've ripped out.

Another common problem with floorboards is the fact that they can become bulged or warped. Excessive humidity and water exposure cause the wood fibers to swell and shrink. Although replacing the damaged floorboard may be the best option for severe bulges, a DIY approach can fix minor ones without much hassle. The main advantage of this approach is that it's not difficult to do, and it's a cost-effective way to restore the original look of your hardwood floors.

While DIY floorboard repairs can be done at home, it is important to follow the proper procedure to ensure a durable finish. Using a saw to cut the damaged floorboards can lead to the over-cutting of adjacent board tongues. If you have a thin vinyl or plastic flooring, you can use a metal ruler to make multiple scores. A wedge-shaped notch is better than a saw. This prevents the board from snapping on the adjacent tongue.