Wooden Flooring Repair – How to Repair a Scratch Or Gouge
If your wood floor has suffered a scratch or gouge, you’ll want to get it repaired as soon as possible. While it’s possible to make repairs on your own, if you’re dealing with major damage, it’s a good idea to get a help from a handyman company. Depending on the severity of the damage, you may have to replace your flooring entirely.
First, clean the area around the scratch or gouge. Make sure to remove all grime and dust. Use a floor buffer with a 60-grit screen and run it in the direction of the board. This will also remove any discoloration or shine.
Next, sand the affected area to about an inch from the original damage. You can use a vibrating sander or an orbital sander to sand the wood. Once you have sanded it to the appropriate level, you’ll be ready to apply some wood filler. It should be epoxy-based and you’ll need to allow it to dry. A damp cloth will work well to smooth out the surface.
Alternatively, you can apply wood filler with a putty knife. Using a putty knife will not only protect the floor from further scratches, but it can also be used to repair deep dents. Remember to wipe off the filler while it’s wet. When the filler is dry, you can stain or varnish the floor.
If the scratch or gouge is more severe, you’ll probably have to cut the damaged section off and replace it. Cutting out damaged areas isn’t always the best option, but it can be easier than trying to replace the entire board. In many cases, you can even reuse the piece of wood.
Ideally, you’ll have a plan of action to follow. Determine what material you can replace and which pieces will be matched to the rest of the floor. Using a birds-eye view, you’ll be able to decide which areas need to be replaced first. For example, if your wood floor has been damaged by furniture, you can replace the broken pieces and match the rest of the flooring.
You can also use apple cider vinegar and olive oil to treat a scratch. Apply the mix to the scratched area and allow it to soak in. After a few minutes, wipe the area with a soft cloth.
Lastly, if your wooden floor has been stained, you’ll need to remove the stain and refinish it. You can use an oxalic acid solution to remove dark stains, or mineral spirits to lighten them. Be careful to match the stain to the original finish.
If your wood floor has suffered from a large stain, you’ll have to refinish the whole floor. The refinishing process is not as easy as it sounds, though. Before you begin, it’s important to take any leftover planks and make sure they’re the proper length. Also, make sure you use a nail gun to secure the replacement boards. Doing this improperly can cause chips in the floor’s surface, so ensure you’re using a proper tool.