Repairing Wood Floor By Turning Over Floor Boards

Question:

WHEN REPAIRING 50 YEAR OLD WOOD FLOORS, CAN THE 2-1/2″ WIDE FLOORING IN THE AREA TO BE REPAIRED BE REMOVED, TURNED OVER AND THEN SANDED? I REALIZE THE FIRST PIECE TO BE REMOVED WILL NEED TO BE REPLACED WITH NEW WOOD.

Answer:

Dear Jaime

You may be able to turn over the board, but only if the wood has been milled with the tongue in the exact center. These days the tongue and groove are milled further down the board, and the bottom of the board may have relief cuts or grooves in it to prevent warping. But you will see when you remove the first one. Be sure to read my article available in the search box at the top of this web page about repairing wood floors.