Scratches on laminate flooring are a common frustration for Indianapolis homeowners, but it doesn’t normally mean the floors need to be replaced. Light and moderate scratches can often be repaired with simple techniques and repair kits.

This guide walks you through how to fix scratches out of laminate flooring and when it's time to consider replacement instead of repair.

If your floors are already past the point of repair, or if you want to refresh your home with a new look, our team at Floor Coverings International® of Southeast Indianapolis, IN, makes it simple to find the perfect style and finish by bringing samples straight to your home. Contact us for a free consultation today.

Why Laminate Floors Scratch

Does laminate flooring scratch easily? No, quality laminate is built with a resilient wear layer that's highly scratch-resistant; however, the resin can’t prevent everything. Strong abrasions, impacts, and dragging can wear away the surface and create white scuff marks or deeper damage.

Here’s what to watch out for:

Abrasions. The most common issue is dirt or sand rubbing into the floor and gradually wearing down the protective layer. Higher-quality laminate has thicker wear layers which take more to wear through, while lower-quality floors may show damage faster.
Impacts. Dropped objects, hard-heeled shoes, or other sharp impacts can dent the surface instantly. Pet nails can also scratch laminate, especially on stairs or in hallways.
Dragging. Sliding furniture without pads is often the issue here. Since laminate can’t be sanded and refinished like hardwood, it’s important to protect the top layer and keep it looking fresh.

Start by Identifying the Type of Scratch

The first step in repairing laminate flooring is identifying the level of damage. For example, using a harsh abrasive on a light scuff can wear down the surrounding finish and create a dull spot. On the other hand, a wax pencil will only temporarily mask a deeper gouge that truly requires a filler.

Taking a moment to assess the damage ensures your repair is gentle and effective:

Light surface scratches are shallow marks that affect only the top wear layer. They're often cosmetic and the easiest to repair.
Moderate scratches go slightly deeper and may catch your fingernail, but they don’t expose the core layer.
Deep scratches and gouges cut through the laminate design layer and expose the core underneath.

How to Fix Light Scratches

If you’ve noticed a few light scratches catching in the light and disrupting the shine on your floors, you can minimize the lines with gentle cleaning and light buffing to restore a more seamless look.

Here’s how to repair scratched laminate flooring:

Clean the area. Dirt can make scratches appear worse than they are.
Buff gently with a dry microfiber cloth to reduce the mark.
Use a laminate floor polish or repair solution.
Wipe off any excess product.

Note: Although these steps won’t completely remove scratches, they can help blend them into the surrounding floor.

Repairing Moderate Scratches

When a scratch is more than just a surface scuff and you can feel the groove with your fingernail, you’re dealing with a moderate scratch. This type of damage often requires careful touch-up, since the goal is to fill and disguise the flaw using a product that matches your floor’s color and sheen. Moderate scratches usually respond best to laminate repair kits, which are available in a range of colors.

Here's how to use them:

Choose a wax or filler color that closely matches your floor. Many kits come with a range of browns that can be blended to more closely fit the color you need.
Apply the filler to the scratch using the provided tools or plastic putty knife.
Smooth the area and wipe away excess before it dries.
Allow the repair to set fully before walking on the floor.

What to Do About Deep Scratches and Gouges

Unfortunately, a deep scratch or gouge that exposes the core material is more difficult to repair. Since this type of damage can’t be buffed out or easily filled, your options may be limited. If the damage is widespread, replacement may be more practical than repeated spot repairs.

Your options include:

Using a color-matched filler to improve appearance. This is a temporary solution but can help in less visible areas.
Replacing individual planks if extra material is available.
Living with cosmetic damage, if the damage is in discrete areas.

Tips for Getting the Best Results

For the most seamless repair, preparation and color matching matter. Laminate floors require a gentle approach to avoid damaging the protective wear layer, so working carefully and with the right tools makes a difference.

Here are some key tips for better results and fewer mistakes:

Use soft cleaners and cloths. Abrasive products can make scratches worse.
Buff gently. Laminate can’t be refinished like wood, so over-buffing may cause additional damage.
Apply just enough wax or polish. Too much product can leave residue that attracts dirt and highlights repairs.
Use kits designed specifically for laminate. Products meant for hardwood or vinyl may cause damage.

How to Prevent Scratches in the Future

With a few preventative habits, you can extend the life of your laminate floors. Small changes can dramatically reduce everyday wear and keep surfaces looking newer longer.

Here are some ways to help prevent scratches:

Place mats at entryways.
Use felt pads under furniture.
Trim pet nails regularly.
Lift furniture when it needs to be moved.
Sweep or vacuum frequently with soft attachments.

When to Replace Instead of Repair

Repairs work well for isolated damage, but replacement becomes the better option when scratches are widespread or deep across multiple rooms. In these cases, repairs may only offer short-term improvement.

If water damage has caused swelling, warping, or uneven seams, replacement is often the safest and most effective solution.

Ready to Enjoy Beautiful Laminate Floors?

While quality laminate is scratch-resistant, damage can still occur from grit, pet claws, and furniture dragging across the surface. By identifying the type of scratch, you can choose the right repair method and improve the appearance of your floors. With proper care and preventative steps, you can keep laminate flooring in Indianapolis, IN, looking great for years.

If you’re ready for a fresh look and brand-new laminate floors, our team at Floor Coverings International® of Southeast Indianapolis, IN, offers convenient one-on-one floor selections by bringing samples directly to your home. Schedule your free in-home consultation or call us at (812) 900-6320 today to explore beautifully realistic finishes.