How to Remove Scratches on Engineered Wood Floors

If an engineered wood floor is scratched, it can be repaired as long as the damage is not too deep. In this blog, we’ll look at a range of issues you should stay aware of, and how you can deal with them.

Minor scratches

If the scratches are not deep, repairing the floor is not difficult. Gently sand the scratches with fine sandpaper, between 180 and 220 grit. Use a wood stain or touch-up pen that is the same colour as the wood. Cover the sanded area with the stain, wipe off any excess stain and allow to dry completely before walking on the floor.

Always sand with the grain, not across it.

Dents

Dents are caused by compression on the wood, often from high heels. Apply a few drops of water to the dent and then cover it with a clean, dry cotton cloth. Warm the area beneath the cloth using an iron, and this should flatten the dent to minimise or remove it.

Moderate or deep scratches

The best way to repair moderate to deep scratches is to use wood filler or wax to fill the scratches. Clean the floor first then mix the filler with wood stain that matches the colour of the floor. Fill the cracks but make sure the filler is level with the floor. Wipe off any excess with a lint free cloth.

If the scratches are deep, the area may need to be sanded with fine sandpaper and a new finish coat applied.

If the damage is extensive, you may need professional help. If there are cracks in the wood that expose the layers below the top wood veneer, a professional refinishing team can fix them.

When you purchase engineered wood, buy a few extra planks which can be used to replace any severely damaged sections of the floor.

Preventing scratches

There are steps you can take to prevent scratches. Grit and other sharp particles can cause minor scratches. Sweep the floor regularly with a soft brush to remove them, or use a vacuum suitable for hard floor surfaces.

Put felt pads on the legs of heavy furniture to prevent damage.

Buy good quality engineered wood from a Chester or North Wals flooring retailer. Make sure that it has been treated with a top coating that is scratch-resistant. This should last for many years in most households.