How to Repair Scratches in Wood Floors

Remove scratches in wood floors with a fine grit sandpaper.

Wood floors add distinction to a home. When they become scratched, the wood floors look old and worn. Most wood floors resist minor scratches, such as from a pet's claw, but scooting heavy furniture across the flooring may leave behind a glaring mark. The scratch becomes embedded with hard-to-remove dirt, leaving an even darker reminder of the imperfection. Repair scratches to restore the beauty of the wood floors.

Things You'll Need

• Paper towels
• Fine-grit sandpaper or steel wool
• 1/4 tsp. mineral spirits
• Clean cloths

Instructions

1. Wipe dirt from the scratch with a damp paper towel. Remove moisture from the scratch with a dry paper towel.

2. Slide a fine-grit sandpaper of fine steel wool gently over the scratch, working in the direction of the grain in the wood. Rub two to three times, then stop and inspect the scratch. Brush or blow residue from the scratch to better examine the area.

3. Place 1/4 tsp. of mineral spirits on the scratch if you have difficulty removing it with sandpaper only. Rub the scratch, allowing the mineral spirits to aid in the removal. Continue rubbing and inspecting the scratch until completely removed from the floor.

4. Wipe the mineral spirits and the wood shavings from the floor with a damp cloth. After wiping, dry the floor with a clean cloth.

Tips & Warnings

• Pick up furniture instead of scooting it across wood floors.

• Place self-sticking felt pieces on the bottom of chair legs to reduce scratches when moving the chairs.

References

• Home Tips: Removing Wood Floor Scratches and Dents

Resources

• National Wood Flooring Association: Renewal and Repairs