Why repair first
Replacement boards are installed before sanding so new and old wood are sanded flat together and receive the same stain and finish. Repairs after finishing usually remain visible.
Common damage types
Each type has a different likely fix.
- Pet urine stains: often penetrate the wood and need board replacement
- Water damage, cupping or crowning: the moisture source should be fixed first
- Deep gouges and cracks: individual board replacement
- Old vent holes and wall removals: patched with woven boards
- Wax contamination: not a board repair, but affects finish bonding
Moisture
Wood changes dimension as its moisture content changes. Replacing cupped boards without addressing a moisture source can lead to the same problem returning.
Frequently asked questions
Can stains be sanded out?
Surface stains sometimes can. Deep stains, especially from pets or water, often cannot and need replacement boards.