Masterfully installed and beautifully maintained, hardwood floors are the jewel of any home, elevating its value in so many ways. Alas, sturdy and enduring as they may be, they’re still not immune to everyday wear and tear – or a host of other issues that may befall them.

Sooner or later, your flooring will incur some degree of damage, necessitating an intervention by specialists for hardwood floor repair in Winston-Salem. The question is: “Does this intervention have to involve replacement?” Let’s dive in and explore!

Can you repair a wooden floor without replacing it?

In many situations, hardwood flooring can be repaired without having to be replaced—at least not entirely. However, the feasibility of these repairs will depend on the type and extent of damage, so we’ll approach them that way.

Repairable issues

Today, there are many techniques that can be used to restore wooden floors to their original state. These range from the simplest application of wood patching compound to fill small holes or gaps to partial replacement of damaged sections (with matching planks, of course) to comprehensive refinishing (where applicable). Issues that can be addressed using these techniques include:

• Scratches & dents: In most cases, a simple refinishing of the affected area(s) is enough to solve the problem.
• Noisy floors: Creaking and squeaking can be fixed by tightening the loose boards or re-securing the subfloor with shims and screws.
• Water damage (minor, sectional): Most commonly addressed by replacing damaged boards and refinishing.
• Gaps between boards: Relatively easily solvable with a patching compound (wood putty or filler) followed by a nice refinish.
• Worn/uneven finish: The only solution here is refinishing the entire floor to restore the uniform look.
• Loose/uneven boards: Typically requires re-leveling the floor, followed by re-fixing it to the subfloor with nails, screws, or shims.
• Small holes or nail pops: This one follows the same logic as gap fixing – fill with patching compound and refinish.

Do note that refinishing is required for many of the aforementioned issues. However, this depends on the exact type of flooring, as some variations can be fixed without refinishing. 

Issues that warrant replacement

When damage is severe or extensive, repairing might not be an option, primarily because it is a) a temporary fix (at best) and b) because it doesn’t address the underlying problem. Here are some situations where replacing hardwood flooring is the best option:

• Water damage (extensive): In most cases, results in compromised structural integrity of the floor and (sometimes) subfloor.
• Wood rot (severe): Whether due to old age or damage, floorboards can deteriorate beyond repair.
• Termite infestation: While localized pest infestation can be addressed, if they’ve spread across a greater surface, replacement is the best option.
• Subfloor issues: Uneven or sagging subfloor can only be repaired by removing the flooring above. While boards can be reused, it is more cost-effective to replace them.
• Outdated flooring: This is not about aesthetics but, rather, about the existing flooring being unsuitable for the space due to changes in usage or conditions (e.g., increased foot traffic or moisture levels).

Who performs high-quality hardwood floor repair near me in Winston-Salem?

Premier Hardwood Flooring is Winston-Salem’s leading provider of installation, repair, and refinishing services for all types of hardwood floors. With 20+ years of experience, high-end solutions, and state-of-the-art tools, we have everything it takes to give you the flooring of your dreams. 

We operate throughout the region, so whether you’re near Bethabara Historic District or any other part of Winston-Salem, the benefits of our expertise are always within your reach. Get in touch with us today and let us elevate the visual appeal and value of your home!