DIY Network

Kitchen Demolition, Pt. 1: Repairing Hardwood Floors A kitchen overhaul that includes new hardwood flooring, cabinets and backsplash. Check out more value-enhancing home projects from Sweat Equity. From "Sweat Equity" episode DSEQ-206

	Before
	After

A complete kitchen overhaul is what Heather Watson and Chad Karns need. But will a brand new kitchen and some high-end appliances price this couple out of their neighborhood?

Projects featured in this kitchen makeover:

• repair hardwood floors
  
• install cabinets
  
• install a backsplash

Having hardwood floors comes with the risk of having them damaged over time. Instead of installing brand new floors, Chad and Heather decide to patch the floor using boards from their demolition. Hiring an expert will save them some serious cash in the long run and make sure their floor is seamless.

	Before
	After

Below is a summary of the basic steps as seen in this Sweat Equity project, as well as a list of materials and tools used and some installation tips.

Materials and tools:

spare hardwood planks
circular saw
miter saw or table saw
finish nailer
flooring stapler
tape measure
rubber mallet
pry bar
hammer
eye protection

Safety Alert: Always wear eye protection and follow proper safety precautions when working with power tools or pneumatic tools.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C

Repairing Hardwood Floors

Tip: It will be necessary to take some boards out in order to keep a random looking pattern in the floor.

Steps:

• In order to repair hardwood floors you need extra planks that match your existing floor. Your demolition might leave you with extra boards; spare closets are also good places to look.

• Select specific boards to pull and mark them (figure A).

• Using a circular saw set at 3/4 of an inch, cut down the length of the board 1/2 inch from either side of the joint, stopping at the end joint (figure B).

• Lift out the plank with a pry bar and a chisel, being careful not to damage the rest of the floor in the process.

• Measure and mark the space where the new plank needs to go (figure C).

• Using the miter saw or table saw cut the board to the correct size.

• Tap the plank into place with a rubber mallet and secure it using a floor stapler.

• Tip: It's best to get a scrap piece to tap it in with so you don't dent the plank.

• Repeat this to cover the patch. Secure the final plank with the finish nailer and wood glue.

• When finished you may want to sand the new patch, then stain (if necessary) and reseal the floor.