Parquet Flooring Repair

[Guy Germaine]

We have parquet flooring in the entry foyer and hallway. LOML always has a rug in front of the door, and I noticed the other day that there is about a 15" round area that is turning black, due to moisture (prolly from the pets). Is there any way to bleach the black spot out?

[Joe Pelonio]

I could use an answer to that one too. I tried diluted bleach and it didn't work, so tried straight bleach. That did nothing either. It seemed like the discoloration was from between the individual pieces and spread under the finish, so it would have to be sanded first, then any remaining bits bleached. I didn't try it because I wasn't sure I could match the color so will probably end up having to sand and refinish the whole floor.

[Lynn Sonier]

You could try to get teak brightener at the marine supply store. I had steel-wooled red oak railings which accidently got wet and turned black. The teak brightener did the job.