I recently moved into a new home and have started tackling some renovations while living here. I've noticed a small soft spot in the wooden floorboards by the toilet in my bathroom, which seems to be caused by a previous leak that may have rotted the wood. I'm looking to cover the floor with vinyl or something waterproof to prevent future issues, but I don't want to just hide the problem. My DIY skills aren't the best, and I'm unsure how to fix this issue safely without causing more problems. Should I cut out the soft area and replace it? Also, what type of tradesperson should I hire to manage this situation? Any advice or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
3 Answers
First things first, you’ll want to shut off the water and remove the toilet. After that, tear out the flooring where the rot is and cut back to the joists to get rid of all the damaged area. Install some 2x4s along the joists to provide extra support when you put the new subfloor in. You’ll need a piece of plywood that matches the thickness of your current subfloor, which is probably around an inch. Once that’s in, you can replace your flooring and reinstall the toilet with a new flange and wax seal if needed. It sounds like a lot, but it’s not as tricky as it seems!
There are products out there designed for treating punky wood, like a version from Elmer's. You pour it on the rotten wood, and it hardens it right up. This could be a quick fix if you’re planning to cover it anyway. But hey, be aware that hiring a pro could get pricey, especially if you call in a handyman. Just ensure it’s not a structural issue before deciding!
If you're feeling up for a DIY project and have a second bathroom, I say go for it! Just make sure to find the source of the leak first before tackling the rotted area. You might need to cut out the soft wood and replace it. It’s a good learning experience and can save you some cash!
Sounds like a plan! Just make sure you know what to do with the leak if you find one. It's better to fix it now than find out later!
Absolutely, this sounds like a manageable DIY project if you're willing to put in the time and effort! It's definitely better to address it than to cover it up.