Repairing laminate flooring typically depends on the type of damage. When dealing with water damage, a specific process is required to prevent further issues. The steps below detail how to repair laminate planks affected by water, based on the provided reference.
Repairing Water-Damaged Laminate Flooring
Water is a common culprit for laminate floor damage, causing planks to swell, buckle, or warp. Addressing water damage promptly is crucial to preserve the rest of your floor. The repair process involves identifying and replacing the affected sections.
Step-by-Step Guide to Water Damage Repair
Follow these steps to repair water-damaged laminate planks:
- Remove any sources of water and dry out your laminate floor completely – This is the critical first step. Ensure the source of water is stopped, and then thoroughly dry the affected area. Using a dehumidifier can help extract moisture from the air and the subfloor.
- Remove any water-damaged planks – Identify the planks that are swollen or visibly damaged by water. Use a putty knife to carefully pry up and remove these individual planks.
- Clean the space and if necessary, trim and replace the underlay – Once the damaged planks are out, clean the exposed subfloor area. Check the underlay beneath the removed planks. If it's wet or damaged, trim away the affected section and replace it with new underlay material.
- Install each new plank using the appropriate floor adhesive – Prepare new laminate planks to match the removed ones. Install these new planks into the gap, securing them using the recommended floor adhesive for your laminate type, ensuring a tight fit with the surrounding boards.
Following these steps can help restore your laminate floor after water exposure, replacing only the damaged planks rather than the entire floor.
