How to Patch Cracks in a Wood Floor

Some cracks in hardwood floors are normal and even necessary to allow for the expansion and contraction wood undergoes when the weather changes. Make sure you patch cracks that need to be patched. You can damage the wood floor by patching too many cracks.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Soft bristle brush
• Vacuum
• Wood putty
• Trowel
• Sponge
• Stain

1. Examine the wood floor thoroughly and determine what cracks should be patched and what cracks should be left alone. The rule of thumb is if you're unable to slide a small household nail in the gap, you don't need to patch it.

2. Select a suitable wood putty patching your floor. Find a putty that's easy to stain so you can match the existing floor, or choose a putty that's already tinted to help it blend in.

3. Use a soft bristle brush and a vacuum to sweep out any loose debris. Vacuum away anything that may affect the ability of the putty to adhere properly to the wood floor.

4. Apply the wood putty with a small trowel, working the putty into the crack until it's filled. Wipe away the excess putty using a slightly damp sponge.

5. Sand the patch smooth and level with the surrounding floor.

6. Refinish the wood floor after you complete the patching process for a uniform finish.