Hardwood floors are one of the most elegant looking flooring options for your home. However, they can be susceptible to scratches due to pets, furniture, rocks tracked from outside, and the general hustle and bustle of daily life. Hopefully the scratches aren’t too deep or wide. Here are a few methods you can try to fix scratches in your hardwood floor.
Sealant
If your floor receives a superficial scratch (one that only scratches the finish, not the wood) you might be able to fix it by applying a sealant. It’s best to use the type of sealant that already exists on your hardwood flooring to make sure it blends. First, use a microfiber cloth and bit of floor cleaner to make sure the area is clean and free of any debris and dust. Wipe away the cleaner with a clean damp cloth and allow the area to completely air dry. Once it’s dry, use a small tipped brush to apply a thin layer of the proper finish to the floor.
Wood Staining Marker
This is for very shallow scratches. Stain markers come in many colors and can be found in your local hardware, paint or department store. Before trying it on the scratch do a spot test to make sure it matches your floor. When you find a good match, wipe the scratched area with a soft, damp rag. Make sure there is no dirt or debris in the scratch or the surface of the hardwood floor around the scratch. Run the marker over the scratch 3-5 times to stain it. Rub the stain into the scratch. Then press a clean rag soaked in mineral spirits onto the wood. Wipe away any residual stain. Repeat if you need to make it darker.
Sanding
If you have a shallow scratch, you may be able to fix it by sanding it and using a wood wax stick found at your local hardware store. Clean the area with a microfiber cloth and small bit of floor cleaner. Use a damp cloth to wipe away the cleaner. Allow the area to dry completely. Rub the wax stick over the scratch to fill it in. You can use a plastic tipped putty knife to force it into the crack if necessary. Allow the wood wax to dry and settle for at least a day or two. Buff the floor with a clean dry cloth to smooth the area and restore shine.For professional help fixing scratches in your floor, contact Naffco today.
