In Atlanta, our humid summers and occasional dry winters can be rough on hardwood, leading to issues like cupped planks and faded finishes. Thankfully, in most cases, with the right approach, you can restore your floors. But exactly how do you get scratches out of wood floors? And is it possible to repair the floor yourself?
In this guide, we’ll talk about different types of damage, how to fix wood floor scratches, and when it’s best to call in the pros.
Have hardwood that’s worn or damaged? Our team at Floor Coverings International® of West Atlanta, GA, offers professional wood repair services. We’ll carefully sand away dull, damaged surfaces and bring back your floor’s natural beauty. Contact us today for a free in-home consultation.
Types of Scratches on Wood Floors
So, how do you fix scratched wood floors? The first step is to identify the type of scratch since different levels of damage call for different repair techniques. Do you have light surface scuffs, finish-deep scratches, or deep wood gouges?
Here’s how to tell the difference:
- Surface scratches are light marks in the finish, not the wood itself. Because they only affect the protective topcoat, they’re the easiest to fix.
- Finish-deep scratches are more visible and might reach as far as the raw wood but haven't scratched into it.
- Deep scratches and gouges cut through the finish and can expose slivers of bare wood.
How to Fix Light Scratches
For light scratches that haven’t reached the raw wood, you can often use a simple at-home solution to hide the mark and blend it into the surrounding finish. Products like scratch repair markers or wax sticks can refresh dull spots and minor scuffs.
Here's step-by-step guide on how to get surface scratches out of your floors:
- Clean the area well. Carefully wipe away dust with a damp microfiber cloth.
- Buff out the scratch with a soft pad. Gently rubbing the scratch can help smooth the finish.
- Apply a repair marker or wax stick. For a seamless look, choose a color that matches your flooring.
- Polish and protect the floors. Use a gentle hardwood floor polish to blend and protect the surface.
Repairing Deeper Scratches
When you’re dealing with scratches you can see and feel with your fingernail, but that haven’t gouged into the wood itself, the fix requires a bit more precision.
To repair scratches on wood floors:
- Gently sand the scratch. Use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth rough edges.
- Clean the area. Wipe away dust and residue from sanding.
- Apply a matching stain. Dab on a wood stain that matches your floor color.
- Seal the repair. Use a clear polyurethane finish to protect the spot.
- Allow time for curing. Give the area 24-48 hours before walking on it.
Expert tip: Atlanta’s humidity can affect drying time, so allow extra time during the summer months.
When Should You Call a Professional?
Deciding whether to tackle the job yourself or call in professionals like our local team, depends on the size of the damage and your comfort level. For isolated scratches or a single worn-out area, a DIY approach can work well. But if the wear is widespread, or if you’re unsure about your floor’s finish or wood type, calling an expert ensures long-lasting, even results.
It’s best to get professional help when:
- Scratches are widespread
- There are deep gouges in multiple rooms
- You have floors with unique finishes, such as hand-scraped or wire-brushed, that are difficult to match
How to Avoid Future Scratches
Preventing scratches is more about adopting small, daily habits than following a strict maintenance routine. Whether it’s how you move furniture or whether you wear shoes in the house, a few mindful steps can make a big difference.
Here are a few ways to protect your wood floors:
- Keep pet nails trimmed.
- Place area rugs and floor pads near doors, under furniture, and in high-traffic areas.
- Sweep and dust regularly to remove grit that can scratch the surface.
- Reapply a protective finish when the floors start to dull.
Ready to Enjoy Rich Wood Floors that Look Like New?
By pairing the right repair methods with consistent care, you can maintain the beautiful, character-rich floors that make your West Atlanta home shine. While tackling small repairs yourself can be satisfying, knowing when to call in experts saves time and protects your investment.
If your wood floors need professional attention, our team at Floor Coverings International® of West Atlanta is experienced in repairing old and damaged hardwood. Call us at (404) 825-9061 or schedule a free in-home consultation online for professional wood floor repair in Atlanta, GA, today.
