How much to fix a rotted floor?

Author: Johnson Hahn  |  Last update: Friday, April 18, 2025

Water-damaged floor restoration is a multi-step process that can be both complex and costly. The average repair cost ranges from $1,200 to $5,000 per room, depending on the extent of the damage.

How much does it cost to fix a rotted floor?

Fixing rotted floors ranges from $50 to $250 per square foot. In most cases, you'll need to remove and replace the rotted section of the floor and treat the area to prevent further rot.

Can you replace a rotted subfloor from underneath?

Proper repair is you need to remove until you physically see the rot end, subfloor won't be terrible to replace as long as nothing structural is rotted.

How long does it take to refinish 1000 square feet of hardwood floors?

Floor refinishing can vary in duration, but a standard 3-4 days is the typical timeframe for a 1,000 square foot job. The time that is actually needed depends on some factors like your home layout, as we will explore in this blog post.

Does insurance cover rotted subfloor?

Generally, no. Insurance would cover a sudden loss event. A slow leak causing rot over an extended period of time is not a sudden loss event.

How to replace repair rotted sub floor, rotten floor. Easy! Home Mender

Is subfloor ruined if it gets wet?

A wet subfloor doesn't always need to be replaced, but it must be thoroughly dried and assessed for damage. Use fans and dehumidifiers to dry it out. If the subfloor is swollen, warped, or has mold growth, replacement is necessary.

How much should I charge for subfloor repair?

Choosing between repairing and replacing subflooring comes down to the condition of the existing subfloor. If it's generally in good shape, repairing the damaged areas may be a consideration and can cost less than a full replacement. Subfloor repairs can cost between $2 and $10 per square foot.

What is the life expectancy of a subfloor?

How Long Does Subfloor Last? Subfloor typically lasts 30 years or more, but if it is consistently exposed to moisture you may need to replace it sooner.

What do contractors use for subfloor?

Plywood is considered the most popular material used for subflooring, it has been used since the 1950s and remains one of the top choices for contractors. Standard plywood works perfectly fine as a subflooring material, but the best option is ¾” tongue-and-groove plywood subflooring.

Who to hire to replace a subfloor?

Given the complexity of subfloor repairs, you should really stick with a carpenter for this project. But if you want to install a new subfloor or underlayment over sound floor joists, hire a local flooring contractor for this step.

How much does it cost to repair rot?

The average dry rot repair cost is $1,400, but it can range between $500 and $3,000, depending on the extent, size, and location of the damage in your home. The average dry rot repair cost is $1,400, though homeowners can spend as little as $150 or as high as $10,000.

How do you fix a rotted subfloor with water damage?

How to Fix a Water-Damaged Subfloor: Your 8-Step DIY Guide
  1. Start by Stopping the Water. ...
  2. Expose the Subflooring. ...
  3. Make Your Mark. ...
  4. Carefully Cut Subflooring. ...
  5. Remove Damaged Materials. ...
  6. Speed Up the Drying Process. ...
  7. Reinforce Floor Joists. ...
  8. Install Your New Subflooring.

Will insurance pay for water damage to a wood floor?

Homeowners insurance generally covers water damage that's sudden and accidental. For example, if a pipe bursts or a washing machine overflows and damages your floor, you may be covered. But if the water comes from flooding, standard homeowners insurance typically won't cover it.

Can you replace rotted subfloor from underneath?

While it may seem tempting to replace the subfloor from underneath if your home has access from the basement to this area, it should always be replaced from the top.

What does subfloor mold look like?

Subfloor mold can appear as dark spots or patches beneath flooring materials like carpets, vinyl, or laminate. It often grows on plywood or OSB substrates, common since the 1950s. The presence of subfloor mold can be hinted at by a musty odor.

Does subfloor rot spread?

Once dry rot occurs, it can quickly spread to nearby wooden structures, causing further damage and increasing your repair costs within a surprisingly short period.

How much does it cost to repair a sagging floor?

Most homeowners pay between $1,000 and $8,500. Costs vary greatly depending on the type and extent of the damage. Sagging floor repair costs an average of $1,000 to $8,500.

What type of water damage is covered by homeowners insurance?

In general terms, water damage that is considered “sudden and accidental” will most likely be covered by your homeowners policy.

How much does it cost to refinish hardwood floors $1500 sq ft?

Flooring pros usually charge $3–$8 per square foot to refinish hardwood floors, so a single bedroom could cost $300–$800, while a whole home could range from $2,400–$6,000.

Can you sleep in the house after polyurethane?

Oil-Based Polyurethane: Wait 3 to 7 days before sleeping in the house. Water-Based Polyurethane: Wait 2 to 3 days before sleeping in the house. Natural Oils or Waxes: Wait 2 to 5 days depending on the specific product.

Can you live in a house while refinishing floors?

Before it's time to sand the floors, many homeowners ask: “Can I stay in my house while my floors are refinished?” The answer is usually yes. If you'd like to read about the best ways to prepare for and manage the refinishing process, read on!

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