How to repair and replace floorboards

If there are just a few squeaky, cracked or uneven floorboards you need to get rid of to improve your flooring, this guide can help you with the basics.

Level of difficulty

Level 2: Intermediate

What you need

• Safety goggles
• Putty knife
• Wood putty
• Screws
• Nails
• Hammer
• Saw
• Power drill
• Bolster
• Chisel
• Floorboards

The steps to follow

Repairing small dents, cracks and gaps on floorboards

1. Clean the surface with a broom or vacuum cleaner.
2. Use a putty knife to spread a layer of wood filler on the floorboards.
3. Let this layer dry before applying a second layer of wood filler.
4. Allow for the wood filler to dry completely.
5. Smooth the surface with fine-grade sandpaper.

Note:
If the floorboard is irreparable, you'll need to replace it with a new one.

Replacing floorboards

1. Cut out the floorboard that needs to be replaced.
2. Saw off the nails that are holding the floorboard to the floor joist.
3. Cut the floorboard at the centre of the joist. 
4. Lift and remove the floorboard with a bolster chisel and regular chisel.
5. You can use this floorboard as a template to cut the new replacement floorboard to the correct size.
6. Wear safety goggles and a mask when sawing the floorboard.
7. Fit the new piece of floorboard into place.
8. Drill two holes at the end of the floorboard and secure the floorboard to the floor joist with screws.
9. After securing the board, you can then apply a coat of primer to the floorboard and paint it.

Related articles

• How to remove flooring / floorboards
• How to repair squeaking floors

Don't want to DIY? Get recommended flooring specialists for your home improvement job.