Sanding floorboards - woodworm

[WaveyDave]

Hello

I've spent the last day on my hands and knees using a heatgun to remove the bitumen from my 1930s floorboards, longing for the day when I can finally start sanding.

Today, I happily powered up the edging sander to get to work, as I worked around, I could see vein like structures being exposed as I sanded. I assume this is woodworm (looks longstanding as there's no evidence of new holes). I had planned on doing 3 rooms, but the "veins" look aweful. I've kind of resigned myself to the fact that I'm now going to have to carpet, but thought I'd pick the collective brains of the many helpful people on this forum to see if there's anything I can do to repair the floor?

Thanks

Dave

 

[memor maplin]

If the floor boards aren't t&g. It may be easier to take up the floor boards and turn them over and re lay. You'll get a newer surface Although older.

Bet you wish I'd answered this before you spent ages with a heat gun.

 

[r896neo]

It may not be possible and would be as lucky as me if it happened but when i needed a few boards for patching i kept my eyes out and they were knocking down a bunch of identical house nearby. same age and same timber.

Sorry if thats rubbed it in, but it may happen?

If your renovating other rooms that will have carpet/tiles steal boards from there. Another good source is the cupboard under your stairs if you have one. And dont worry about having a few not full length boards it all adds to the character.