Scratches in hardwood floors can be unsightly, but they do not always require a full restoration to fix. Depending on the severity of the scratch, you may be able to repair it yourself with just a few supplies and the right technique. This guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to fix scratches in hardwood floors.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, make sure you have the following items on hand:
- Soft cloth
- Mild soap
- Fine steel wool
- Wood putty
- Sandpaper
- Wood stain
- Matching wood finish
Step 1: Clean the Area
First, use a soft cloth and mild soap to clean the area around the scratch. This will remove any dirt or debris that may be obscuring the scratch and preventing you from seeing how deep it is. Once the area is clean, you can assess the extent of the damage.
Step 2: Assess the Damage
Next, assess the damage. If the scratch is shallow and hasn’t gone through the stain, you may be able to use a fine steel wool to buff it out. If the scratch has gone through the stain, you’ll need to fill it in with wood putty before buffing it out.
Step 3: Fill in the Scratch
If the scratch has gone through the stain, you’ll need to fill it in with wood putty. Squeeze a small amount of putty into the scratch and smooth it out with your finger. Allow the putty to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Step 4: Sand the Putty
Once the putty is dry, use sandpaper to sand it down until it is level with the surrounding wood. Be sure to sand in the same direction as the grain of the wood for best results.
Step 5: Stain the Floor
Once the putty is sanded, it is time to stain the floor. Use a matching wood stain to stain the area around the scratch. Once the stain is dry, apply a matching wood finish to protect the floor.
Step 6: Buff Out the Scratch
Once the stain and finish are dry, use a fine steel wool to buff out the scratch. This will help blend the scratch in with the surrounding wood. Be sure to buff in the same direction as the grain of the wood.
Conclusion
Fixing scratches in hardwood floors can be a simple DIY project if you take the right steps. With just a few supplies and the right technique, you can fix any shallow or superficial scratch on your own. Be sure to follow the above steps to ensure the best results.
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