Hardwood Floor Repair Jobs a Handyman Can Complete for You

Hardwood floors are a beautiful and timeless feature in any home, but they do require some maintenance and occasional repairs to keep them looking their best. Over time, you may start to notice scratches, gaps, or squeaky boards that need attention. While some homeowners may attempt these fixes themselves, hiring a professional handyman is often the smarter, safer, and more efficient solution. Whether your floors are worn from years of use or damaged by accidents, a skilled handyman can handle a wide range of hardwood floor repairs to restore your floors to their former glory.

In this blog, we will explore the most common hardwood floor repair jobs that a handyman can complete for you, explain how they help extend the life of your flooring, and answer some of the most frequently asked questions homeowners have about hardwood floor maintenance.

8 Hardwood Floor Repair Jobs a Handyman Can Complete

1. Fixing Scratches and Surface Marks

One of the most common issues with hardwood floors is surface scratching. This can be caused by furniture, pets, high heels, or simply everyday use. A handyman can sand down the affected area and apply a matching stain and finish to blend the repair seamlessly with the rest of the floor. For deeper gouges, they may use wood filler before refinishing.

2. Replacing Damaged Boards

If a floorboard is cracked, warped, or completely broken, a handyman can remove the damaged piece and install a new one in its place. This job requires precision to ensure the new board fits correctly and matches the surrounding flooring in color, grain, and finish.

3. Tightening or Replacing Loose Boards

Loose boards can create tripping hazards and produce an unpleasant creaking sound when walked on. A handyman can secure loose boards using appropriate fasteners and adhesives to eliminate movement and restore stability to the floor.

4. Eliminating Squeaky Floors

Squeaky floors often occur when floorboards rub against each other or against nails. A handyman can diagnose the source of the noise and apply various techniques such as adding screws from below, inserting wood shims, or using specialized squeak-reducing products to quiet the noise.

5. Repairing Water Damage

Hardwood floors are particularly vulnerable to water damage, which can lead to staining, warping, or even mold growth if not addressed quickly. A handyman can remove affected boards, dry the subfloor, and install new wood flooring to restore the area. In some cases, a full section of flooring may need to be replaced depending on the extent of the damage.

6. Filling Gaps Between Boards

Seasonal changes and years of wear can cause hardwood boards to shrink and create visible gaps. A handyman can fill these gaps with flexible wood filler or a color-matched putty that moves with the natural expansion and contraction of the wood, helping to maintain the integrity and appearance of the floor.

7. Buffing and Recoating

When floors begin to look dull but are otherwise in good condition, a handyman can buff out the surface and apply a fresh coat of finish. This process, known as screening and recoating, extends the life of your floor and restores its shine without needing a full sanding and refinishing.

8. Transition Strip Repair or Installation

Transition strips are used where hardwood flooring meets tile, carpet, or other flooring types. If these become loose or damaged, a handyman can repair or replace them. Proper transition strips help protect the edges of your floor and create a smooth, safe surface between different flooring materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a handyman repair hardwood floors, or do I need a flooring specialist?

Yes, a handyman with experience in flooring repairs can handle many common hardwood floor issues, such as scratches, gaps, and board replacements. However, for extensive refinishing or specialized restoration work, a flooring specialist may be recommended. At Handyman at Your Command, our team is trained to assess the level of repair needed and will let you know if additional services are required.

How long do hardwood floor repairs take?

The time required depends on the type and scope of the repair. Small touch-ups or filling gaps may take just a few hours, while replacing multiple boards or repairing water damage could take a day or more. Our handymen work efficiently to complete the job with as little disruption to your home as possible.

Will the repaired area match the rest of my floor?

A skilled handyman will make every effort to match the color, grain, and finish of the existing floor. This may involve custom staining and finish applications. While exact matches can be challenging depending on the age and wear of the floor, most homeowners are very pleased with the results.

How can I prevent future damage to my hardwood floors?

To extend the life of your hardwood flooring, use felt pads under furniture legs, avoid dragging heavy objects, keep pet nails trimmed, and clean spills quickly to avoid water damage. Regular sweeping and using hardwood-specific cleaning products also help protect the finish and prevent buildup of dirt and debris.

Restore the Beauty of Your Floors with Handyman at Your Command

Your hardwood floors deserve professional care, especially when damage starts to show. At Handyman at Your Command, we offer trusted, experienced repair services that help protect your investment and restore your floors to their original charm. From minor fixes to more involved repairs, our skilled team is ready to help you enjoy beautiful, durable hardwood floors for years to come.

If your hardwood floors are looking worse for wear, do not wait. Contact Handyman at Your Command today to schedule your hardwood floor repair service and let us bring the shine back to your home.