How to repair chips and cracks in laminate flooring

So, you’ve noticed a few chips and cracks in your once pristine laminate? In busy homes and high-traffic areas, natural wear and tear is inevitable, but we’re here to show you how you can repair minor damage and restore your laminate to its full potential.

Here at Flooring King, we’re experts on all things flooring – so we’ve pulled together the following insights on repairing your laminate flooring as well as preventing any future damage. Whether you’re dealing with a chip in your laminate floor or a few glaring scratches, let’s dive into how you can get started on some repairs! 

Laminate damage: the most common culprits

Laminate flooring is known for being stylish and durable, but there are a few common issues that can lead to damage: 

• Heavy furniture: Heavy furniture like tables, wardrobes, and sofas can cause pressure on laminate, eventually causing it to chip and crack. 
• Dropping heavy objects: Accidentally dropping heavy objects can result in noticeable chips. So, you’ll need to be cautious with items like kitchen pots and décor, not forgetting to properly secure mirrors to walls too. 
• Water damage: While water-resistant, laminate isn’t fully waterproof, meaning prolonged exposure to moisture can cause it to swell, crack, or chip.  

Repairing laminate flooring: chips, cracks, and scratches

As long as the damage to your laminate isn’t too severe, the good news is that it can be easily repaired. Depending on the location and severity of the damage, a simple DIY repair can often do the trick. 

How to repair chipped laminate flooring 

Chipping is one of the most common issues with laminate, often caused by sharp furniture legs and dropped items. So, if you’ve noticed a few issues and you’re wondering how to repair chipped laminate floor, here’s how to go about doing so: 

1. Get a repair kit: Available at most home improvement stores, you’ll need to pick up a laminate repair kit containing filler that closely matches the shade of your floor. 
2. Clean the damaged area: Using a clean, damp cloth, carefully wipe away any debris then allow the area to completely dry. 
3. Prepare and apply the filler: Prep the filler according to the instructions, then carefully fill the damaged area using a putty knife. 
4. Smooth the filler: Once applied, use a clean, damp cloth to smooth over the surface, ensuring it’s level with the surrounding laminate.  
5. Protect and apply weight: Cover your repair with a piece of wax paper, securing it in place with some painter’s tape. Then place a heavy item on top to ensure even pressure. 
6. Clean and polish: Once your filler is fully dry, clean the entire area with a damp cloth to remove excess residue. 

How to fix cracked laminate flooring 

Larger, more obvious cracks may require a full plank replacement. If this is the case, here’s how you can replace a singular laminate plank: 

1. Mark the damaged plank: Carefully mark the edges of the damaged plank using tape to identify the exact area you’ll be working on. 
2. Cut out the damaged plank: Many DIYers find it helpful to drill holes in the centre of the damaged plank. This makes it easier to remove the middle part and then carefully lift away the edges. 
3. Install your new plank: Apply wood glue to the edges of your new plank, then carefully slot it into place, gently hammering it down to ensure a snug fit. Wipe away any excess glue and place a heavy object on top for around 2-4 hours. 

Just remember, if you’re new to the world of DIY, it might be a good idea to seek professional assistance when replacing planks, as you don’t want to risk further damage. 

How to disguise scratches in your laminate 

If your laminate has some minor scratches from furniture and pet claws, a simple scratch repair pen can go a long way in improving its appearance. Pick out a pen that’s a close colour match to your floor, then carefully trace over the scratches. 

Make sure you follow the grain of your laminate, then once you’re done, allow the area to fully dry. 

And there you have it: laminate that looks as good as new! 

Laminate maintenance: how to prevent cracks and chips 

So, now we’ve outlined how to fix chipped laminate floor, it’s time to dive into how to prevent damage from happening in the first place. While natural wear and tear is inevitable, there are a variety of things you can do to extend your laminate’s lifespan. 

1. Regular cleaning

When dirt and debris build up, they can act like sandpaper, scratching the surface of your laminate. So, it’s important to clean your laminate regularly using a soft-bristle brush and a damp mop. You can use your vacuum on a hard floor setting too to ensure you’ve collected all the debris. 

2. Use furniture protectors

As mentioned, furniture can cause significant damage to laminate floors, especially when dragged across the surface. To prevent damage from pressure points, we’d recommend placing felt or rubber pads under furniture legs.  

3. Clean up spills immediately

While laminate is water-resistant, it isn’t 100% waterproof, meaning spills will need to be mopped up quickly and efficiently. Any spills that are left unattended can soak into the seams, causing the boards to swell and crack. 

When to replace laminate flooring 

With proper care and regular maintenance, laminate flooring can remain beautiful and functional for many years. However, if you notice extensive damage, such as multiple large chips or deep cracking, it may be time to think about finding a replacement. 

If your laminate has reached the end of its lifespan, and you’re looking to freshen up your home, here at Flooring King, we’ve got options to suit spaces of all kinds. 

Whether you’re looking for natural laminate flooring to replicate the look of real wood, ultra-modern black laminate, or white laminate, we’ve got you covered. 

Just contact us with any questions and queries, or if it’s additional insights you’re after, head over to our flooring blog. There you can read about how to install laminate as well as laminate installation costs.