Common Flooring Problems in Dearborn Heights, MI and How Professionals Address Them

1. Water Damage
   Water damage is a frequent issue in Michigan due to its humid climate, causing warping or discoloration in hardwood floors. Professionals start by assessing the extent of the damage using moisture meters. For minor issues, sanding and refinishing might be sufficient, while severe cases require board replacement.

   • Methods Used: Moisture assessment, sanding machines for refinishing, board replacement.
   • Average Pricing: Sanding and refinishing range from $3 to $5 per square foot; board replacement costs $8 to $12 per square foot.
   • Time Involved: Refinishing takes 1-3 days; replacements may take 2-4 days depending on severity.

2. Scratches and Dents
   Everyday use can lead to scratches and dents in hardwood or laminate floors. Experts restore these surfaces without full replacements by utilizing buffing techniques for surface scratches and wood fillers for deeper dents.

   • Methods Used: Buffing for surface scratches, wood fillers followed by staining and sealing.
   • Average Pricing: Buffing is about $1 to $2 per square foot; repairs with fillers range from $75 to $150 per incident.
   • Time Involved: Typically completed within a day.

3. Tile Cracking or Chipping
   Tiles may crack due to impacts or foundational shifts. Repair professionals replace individual tiles or repair grout for minor chips, ensuring a seamless blend with existing tiles.

   • Methods Used: Tile replacement for individual tiles, grout repair.
   • Average Pricing: Replacing a single tile costs between $125 and $200 including labor; grout repair runs about $5 per linear foot.
   • Time Involved: Usually completed within a few hours for individual tiles.

4. Carpet Rippling or Stretching
   Over time, carpets can develop ripples due to humidity or improper installation. Skilled technicians use power stretching tools to smooth out these imperfections efficiently.

   • Methods Used: Power stretching tools are used to pull the carpet tight before securing it again.
   • Average Pricing: Re-stretching services typically cost between $0.50 and $1 per square foot.
   • Time Involved: A few hours depending on room size.

5. Laminate Peeling or Lifting Laminate floors may peel at the edges if exposed to moisture or improperly installed. Professionals address this by fixing moisture issues first and then repairing or replacing damaged planks.

   • Methods Used: Moisture barriers installation, plank replacement where necessary.
   • Average Pricing: Plank replacement costs approximately $6 to $10 per square foot; moisture barrier installation averages around $0.50 extra per square foot.
   • Time Involved: Typically takes 1-2 days depending on area size.

6. Vinyl Floor Bubbling or Lifting Vinyl flooring can bubble up if adhesive weakens over time due to temperature fluctuations or moisture exposure.

   • Methods Used: Heat application tools are used for re-adhering vinyl back into place; adhesive reinforcement might be needed in some cases.
   • Average Pricing: Repair costs range from $100-$250 depending on severity and area size involved