It is better to start soon as scratches can expand and worsen. Then comes the quality of the wood because there are different types of flooring. The wooden floors are easy to handle, for example.
So, know all of your options before you begin.
What finish is on your floor?
The type of surface treatment can make things easy or difficult. The degree of damage is also an important consideration when you are thinking of removing the scratches. In some cases, you may need to replace part of the floor.
First, customize the type of surface you have on your floor. There are 4 to 6 different types of surfaces on the market.
- Oil surface based on polyurethane
- Water surface based on polyurethane
- Wax-based coating
- paint
- Al2O3, oxide of the aluminum coating
Superficial scratches are easy to repair as they are not a problem. A superficial scratch will only affect the top layer of the wooden floor. Sometimes just the top finish and not the bottom. There are tons of DIY solutions out there to try, but as always, you can seek professional help too. Before we dive into any particular solution, let's go over some general rules of thumb in the industry.
General tips for removing scratches
- Clean the area properly with a cloth, removing all traces of dirt and dust. This helps as cleaning may reduce the scratch.
- A little DIY solution like a mixture of apple cider vinegar and olive oil can often help with minor scratches.
- Since the wood has scratches, consider using a blending pen to blend or fill the scratch by darkening the wood.
- Light and superficial scratches can also be removed with a finish restorer, as the markings can be removed by adding another layer.
- Or you can apply a new layer of wax, polyurethane, etc. to remove medium-sized scratches as this will then be more effective than small DIY repairs. But make sure it matches the original.
- However, if there are a lot of scratches everywhere, it is best to consult professionals. Because they grind and refine the surface and apply the finishing solution again.
- If there are wide grooves, you can use wood fillers as these are better than any finish you can apply. It will keep the scratches from getting worse, deeper, and wider.
- Sanding down the imperfections or wider scratches before applying the filer or finish is generally a good idea for medium to poorer scratches. Before making repairs, properly smooth the floor.
- Finally, the stage comes when the above solutions stop working because that particular section of the wooden floor is quite badly damaged. Then replace the stains on the wooden floor and seek professional help with it. Make sure that matching boards are used.
Removal of light scratches at home from wooden floors
Now that we've looked at the general rules for removing scratches and understood some of the basics behind the job, let's go over a few other things. Since scratches vary in strength, they can be superficial or large grooves that may need to be filled. These different requirements also require different treatments. Not all methods are suitable as DIY projects unless you have the experience and equipment to do it, e.g. B. Floor sanding with the right sander and sandpaper.
Let's understand the DIY solution first because it is a home remedy and people rely on it very often. Unless you noticed the scratch just before it's too late, there are several things you can do.
- First, start by properly cleaning the area, removing any traces of dirt, dust, etc. If necessary, use a soft rag or cloth and some hardwood floor cleaner. Then rub it gently to make sure the floor is properly clean, including the scrape. You don't need to clean the entire floor, just the small section around the scratch.
- Then rinse off the excess cleaner after you're done. Now that the scratch is completely clean, you can dampen the area with a rag and water. Simply water will help you remove the excess cleaner from the scratch marks like a sponge. Finally let it dry naturally.
- Then bring some wax and gently rub it on the scratches. This will help fill in the scratches. In some cases, you may need to use a putty knife-like plastic tool to push the wax into the scratches as these can be deeper in places and the wax must penetrate into them. Wood wax is clear and can therefore be used on any wooden floor. If you want to use a specific shade, you can too. Just think about the type of surface you have in your room.
- Finally, polishing the scratch is the final step in this DIY wood scratch removal process. To do this, you need to use a soft and clean cloth. Rub it back and forth on the scratch area and apply the polishing wax. Polishing with the wax will result in a smooth and shiny surface as it was when it was new. It also helps remove excess wax and keep the surface polished.
The above four steps are crucial in making such repairs. However, they are only suitable for superficial, light and medium scratches. And better for single or single scratches. If you have a lot of these on your floor, seek help right away or prepare for a long routine. This includes sanding, reapplying the entire floor, cleaning, rubbing, etc.
Conclusion
In short, there are different types of hardwood floors and different types of damage from scratches. For light to medium scratches, DIY solutions are pretty affordable, others may require you to spend a little more money. If you do not know these details, you can contact companies that offer home maintenance and quality flooring in your neighborhood.