Floors are trampled every day. Heavy traffic, spilled drinks, and other accidents wear them out every day. You notice cracks, scratches, and squeaks here and there, and you’d think of calling a contractor right away.
But wait before laying out the money, there are do-it-yourself solutions that you can accomplish yourself easily enough. Following the right procedures, you save dollars and keep your home in top working condition.
Let’s explore five easy solutions to common floor issues.
Squeak-Free Silent Floors using Powder or Screws
It is annoying to squeak at every step. The cause of the squeak is loose boards rubbing against each other. One of the temporary solutions is to apply talcum powder or baking soda between the boards.
If the squeak persists, grab a drill. Insert thin screws carefully into the loose boards to secure them to the joists below. Just be certain that the screw heads are flush so you don’t trip on them.
Plug Small Cracks with Wood Filler or Putty
Hardwood floor gaps age the floors and leave them looking neglected. Fortunately, you can easily fix them using wood filler that blends with your floor color. All you need to do is clean the area, apply the filler, and allow it to dry thoroughly.
For deeper scratches, elastic putty that expands and contracts together with the wood can be used. After finishing, your floor appears new and even without the necessity for costly replacements.
Sand Out Scratches or Solve by Yourself
Scratches are inevitable, particularly when furniture or pets are being relocated. For minor scratches, attempt a do-it-yourself repair: apply crayon to the scratch, followed by polishing with a soft cloth. It fills in the line and makes it less noticeable.
If scratches are more profound, light sanding is great. Sand with fine-grit sandpaper in the direction of the grain and apply sealant or floor polish once more. To keep protection even longer, coat wood or concrete floors with a thin layer of epoxy. Not only will epoxy conceal flaws, but it will also make your floor scratch-proof in the future.
Prevent Water Damage Early
Water is one of the largest offenders. Leaking pipes or spilled drinks, and water seeps into the floor, weakening its endurance. Blot spills immediately on wood floors so they will not cause stains. Or seal with a sealant for extra protection.
Concrete floors need to be waterproofed. An affordable and new method is bitumen waterproofing. It forms a water-tight membrane that prevents water from penetrating the concrete, thus eradicating cracks and ultimate damage.
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Level Uneven Floors with Simple Materials
Uneven floors not only look bad but also lead to accidents. If you find dips or bulges, don’t worry. Low spots can be fixed with floor patching compounds, which are sold in hardware stores. Blend the compound, fill the low spot, and smooth it out with a trowel.
For floating vinyl or laminate flooring, in a few instances, simply checking the underlayment is all it takes. Replace or repair it, and the floor is level in no time. With patience and the right tools, you can do it on your own without hiring a professional.
Wrapping Up
This article has given you some DIY remedies to repair undesirable floor problems in your house. The ideal way is to know which fix is best suited for your particular problem and fix it in time before it gets out of hand. By carrying out these simple repairs, you’re the boss, economizing on your pockets and maintaining your floors firm and gorgeous for years to come.
