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Hardwood floors add timeless beauty and durability to your home. With the right care, they can last a lifetime.
Unfortunately, no matter how cautious you are, your hardwood flooring will eventually scratch.
But, most scratches can be easily repaired without calling a professional.
Assessing the Scratch: Minor or Major Damage?
To determine the severity of the scratch in your hardwood, run your fingernail gently across it. If it glides smoothly, it's likely superficial and you’ll be able to address this yourself. A deeper gouge will catch your fingernail and might expose raw wood. In these cases, call in a professional for the best results.
Can you use wood filler on hardwood scratches? Yes, for small gouges, but professionals are best for extensive damage.
What are the different DIY methods for fixing scratches on hardwood floors?
The method you choose will depend on the scratch’s depth. Here's a quick guide to choosing the right solution:
- Buffing for Subtle Scratches: For faint, barely-there scratches that don't catch your fingernail, buffing with a soft cloth can often restore the shine and disguise the imperfection.
- Stain Pen or Wax Stick Camouflage: If the scratch is slightly deeper but still doesn't snag your fingernail, a stain pen or wax stick can come to the rescue. Choose a stain pen that closely matches your floor color, and gently apply it to the scratch to fill it in. For wax sticks, melt a small amount of wax matching your floor and use it to fill and smooth out the scratch. Buff the area afterward to create a seamless finish.
- Wood Filler for Deep Gouges: For deeper gouges that leave a noticeable indentation and might expose raw wood, wood filler becomes the best option. This method requires more effort, as you'll need to fill the gouge with wood filler that matches your floor stain, then sand and refinish the area to achieve a flawless look.
With a little effort and the right tools, you can keep your hardwood floors looking beautiful for years to come. At Stine Home + Yard, we can help you find the right approach for your hardwood.
Have more questions on hardwood flooring? Contact Stine Home today or visit any of our convenient locations throughout Louisiana!