🛠 How to Repair Damaged Laminate Flooring: Easy DIY Tips

Laminate flooring is a durable and stylish choice for many South African homes. However, accidents happen — and from time to time, your flooring may get scratched, chipped, or even water-damaged. Fortunately, most issues can be fixed without replacing the entire floor. In this guide, we’ll walk you through quick and effective ways to repair damaged laminate flooring.

🔧 Common Types of Laminate Damage

Before you start any repairs, it’s important to identify the type of damage:

• Scratches – Often caused by furniture or pet claws
• Chips – Usually from heavy impact or dropped objects
• Swollen planks – Typically due to moisture or water damage

Each type of damage requires a different approach, which we’ll cover below.

✍️ How to Repair Minor Scratches

Minor surface scratches are the easiest to fix.

What you’ll need:

• Laminate floor repair kit (available at most hardware stores)
• Damp cloth

Matching wax or filler stick

Steps:

1. Clean the scratched area thoroughly with a damp cloth.
2. Use the wax stick from the repair kit to fill in the scratch.
3. Blend and smooth with the plastic applicator.
4. Buff gently for a uniform finish.

👉 Explore our laminate flooring collection to find scratch-resistant ranges.

🔨 How to Fix Chips in Laminate Flooring

What you’ll need:

• Laminate repair putty or filler
• Putty knife
• Color-matching pen (optional)

Steps:

1. Clean the area.
2. Apply filler to the chipped section using a putty knife.
3. Smooth it out and let it dry.
4. Use a color-matching pen for better blending, if needed.

💡 Tip: For deep or large chips, replacing the plank may be a better option.

💧 Repairing Swollen Laminate Planks

Swollen or warped planks can’t be repaired — they need to be replaced.

Steps:

1. Remove the skirting and edge Moldings.
2. Carefully unlock the planks around the damaged one.
3. Replace the swollen plank with a matching one.
4. Reassemble the floor and reinstall the skirting.

🔗 Need help? Visit our installation service page or contact us.

To avoid swelling in the future, consider our water-resistant vinyl flooring or laminate options like Floorpan Street.

🧰 Preventative Tips

• Use furniture pads to avoid scratches.
• Clean spills immediately.
• Place doormats at entrances.
• Use proper laminate flooring underlay for moisture protection.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can you repair a swollen laminate plank?
Only slightly. In most cases, it’s better to replace the plank.

What tools do I need to fix a scratch on laminate?
A repair kit with wax filler, a cloth, and a blending pen.

Can I replace just one plank of laminate?
Yes, if your floor was installed with a click-lock system.

Where can I buy laminate repair kits?
At most hardware stores, or visit our accessories section.

📦 Final Thoughts

Repairing damaged laminate flooring doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right tools and guidance, you can extend the life of your floors and maintain their appearance.

🛠 Still unsure? Our team at Laminate Floor World is here to help. Contact us for expert advice or professional repairs, of browse our laminate flooring prices on line.