Replacing a single board in the middle of a floating laminate floor can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be a straightforward process. The key is to take your time, work carefully, and ensure that the replacement board is properly secured and blends seamlessly with the existing floor.
Tools you’ll need:
- Vacuum
- Mallet
- Tapping Block
- Blue Tape
- Chisel or Putty Knife
- Pry bar
- Utility Knife
- Floating floor T&G glue
- *Optional: Quick-Set Super Glue
- Color Filler
- Circular saw or Track saw
- …and a Replacement board the exact size
Preparing for the Repair
To begin, gather the necessary tools: a vacuum for cleaning up debris, a mallet, a tapping block, blue tape, a putty knife or pry bar, utility knife, floating floor tongue and groove glue, superglue, color filler, and a saw to cut and remove the damaged board.
Next, confirm that the replacement board is a exact size and match for the existing floor. Once you’ve verified the match, using a marker draw two diagonal lines from corner to corner on the board you’re replacing. This will help you ensure that you’re cutting only the board being removed. As an added precaution, you can tape off the perimeter of the board with blue tape to prevent any accidental damage or glue spillage on the surrounding planks.
Removing the Old Board
Adjust your saw to the appropriate depth by using a board to set your cutting depth to stop cutting at the level of the attached pad. When making your cut along the board from corner to corner, be careful not to cut through the underlayment. For products with attached pad on the back, you can cut down to the pad and then score through the line with a razor knife.
Use a pry bar or putty knife to carefully lift up each of the four pieces from the saw cuts angling the pieces to the edges of the plank. Carefully lift adjacent or opposite pieces to avoid damaging the locking mechanism. Once the edge locking mechanism has released, you can clean up any debris or dust in the hole or the locking mechanism before proceeding.
Depending on the size of the room, you may be able to separate the planks in the row to fit the new board without modifying the end joints. This can make for a cleaner and more seamless replacement. You can use a pull bar to help create the necessary gap. Watch this section of the video here.
Modifying the Replacement Board to Fit
To fit the new board into the space, you’ll need to modify the locking mechanism. Preserve the part of the plank that goes under the locking mechanism and shave off the small portion that goes over. If you were unable to separate the planks at the ends of the hole, you may also need to shave off the end locking mechanism to ensure a flush fit.
Carefully dry-fit the modified board in place, ensuring that the underside of the locking mechanism fits snugly under the adjacent board. Once you’re satisfied with the fit, remove the board and prepare to install it.
Securing the Replacement Board
Apply a generous amount of floating floor tongue and groove glue to the underside of the installed adjacent board where the replacement plank will make contact. You can also use intermittent spots of CA glue, but the superglue alone will not be strong enough to hold the board in place.
Carefully seat the replacement board, pressing it down firmly and holding it for about 30 seconds. If you’re unable to hold the entire board down at once, you can use weights along the edge until the glue has cured.
Finally, remove the blue tape and inspect the seams. If you notice any gaps, use a matching color filler from ColorRite to ensure a watertight seal and a seamless appearance.
Success!
Replacing a single board in a floating laminate floor may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be a straightforward process. By taking the time to prepare, remove the old board carefully, modify the replacement, and secure it properly, you can restore the integrity and appearance of your floor. Remember to work slowly and carefully, and don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance if you encounter any challenges along the way.
And you’re done! You’ve successfully taken that ugly, damaged board out and replaced it like a pro!
For more ways to repair common problems from scratches to a chipped edge, click here.