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How can I fix wooden floor chips?

I've got some sections of my wooden floor looking like this, what can I do to fix them, or at least reduce the pieces that are coming off and avoid having a sharp/tripping hazard?

I don't have many further details about the floor, it's a new (to me) house, about 20 years old.

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EricL

Hello @Jarrod1

It appears to be real timber flooring and not a laminate product. It seems that the former owner used timber filler and it's reached the end of its service life. I propose using Selleys 250ml Aquadhere Polyurethane Wood Glue Durabond Adhesive under the lifting splinters to glue them back onto the base. Make sure to give the glue enough time to cure before filling the gap with filler. in regards to the filler, I suggest using Timbermate 250g Natural Wood Filler to fill the gap between the panels.

Please make sure to wear personal protection such as gloves, goggles and a mask when working on your project.

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1 and @Nailbag for their recommendations.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

Nailbag

Hi @Jarrod1

Pretty much what @EricL has described is the best plan of attack. Apply a healthy amount of the wood glue and press the splinters down and wipe the excess with a damp rag. Then if need be rest a weighted object on top. The glue dries clear. There are no harmful chemicals used in the glue and filler to be concerned about. Once the filler has cured, apply with a thin brush a polyurethane clear varnish to seal it.

Nailbag

Dave-1

Good Morning @Jarrod1

My floor has around 15 years on it since it ws sanded. I have had a few small areas of fill that have dissapeared over the years :) When it gets to a point like yours I would pretty much do what @EricL and @Nailbag have suggested. Its just a bit of maintence is all. Smaller scratches I would use floor wax pens to fill but I prefer it done so there is a solid fill of the crack/holes.

Dave

Jarrod1

Thanks everyone! @Nailbag I see the product you recommended has matte, gloss or satin finishes. I'm guessing based on my floor, gloss is probably the best choice? Photo of a slightly more reflective spot to see.

MitchellMc

Hi @Jarrod1,

Hopefully, Nailbag can respond. But yes, it does appear to be a gloss finish. However, it's always best to do a test section in an inconspicuous location to double-check.

Mitchell

Nailbag

Hi @Jarrod1 sorry yes gloss would be the right choice and get the smallest tin available (500ml or less) as you barely need much. Just apply it thinly and take your time trying to just varnish the fills. I use a good tape and leave it there until I have done 2-3 coats with one of these brushes on its long side. As @MitchellMc suggested, do a small test in an unseen area. Plus it will get the brush hairs a little softer once loaded with varnish.

Nailbag

Jarrod1

Thanks, I'll grab those items and give it a go!

Do I need to do anything to smaller areas like these? Not sure if it's just how it is and considered normal for wood floor, or wear and tear that should be maintained before it gets worse? Would I just use the filler + varnish on these sorts of gaps, or not worth worrying about? I don't want to get too pedantic about it, but don't want things to be a bigger problem over time.

MitchellMc

Those gaps are actually a natural characteristic of timber rather than wear or damage that has developed over time, @Jarrod1. They’re not likely to get any worse on their own. In most cases, you wouldn’t need to fill them.

However, since you’re already addressing the other areas with filler and varnish, it makes sense to go ahead and fill these smaller voids too. It will give the floor a more consistent finish and help prevent them from getting worse.

Mitchell

Jarrod1

Thanks for letting me know.

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