How to Fix Scratched Hardwood Floors

Minor scratches can be fixed with wood filler and touch-up stain, while deeper gouges require sanding the area and applying matching stain and polyurethane finish.

  1. Diagnose Scratch Depth Fast. Run your fingernail across the scratch. If your nail catches, it's a deep scratch that goes through the finish into the wood. If it doesn't catch, it's a surface scratch in just the protective coating. Surface scratches are much easier to fix.
  2. Clear the Work Zone. Use a damp cloth to remove all dirt and debris from the scratch. Let the area dry completely before proceeding. Any particles left behind will interfere with your repair and create an uneven finish.
  3. Polish Surface Scratches Away. For shallow scratches that don't catch your fingernail, apply a small amount of wood floor polish or scratch repair product directly to the scratch. Rub it in with a soft cloth following the wood grain direction. Buff the area until it matches the surrounding floor's sheen.
  4. Pack the Gap Solid. For scratches that catch your fingernail, use wood filler that matches your floor color. Apply it with a putty knife, pressing firmly to fill the entire scratch. Scrape off excess filler so it's level with the floor surface. Let dry according to package directions, usually 2-4 hours.
  5. Level It Flush. Once the filler is completely dry, sand it smooth with 220-grit sandpaper. Sand gently in the direction of the wood grain until the filled area is perfectly flush with the surrounding floor. Wipe away all dust with a tack cloth.
  6. Match the Floor Tone. Using a small artist's brush, apply wood stain that matches your floor's color to the repaired area. Work the stain into the wood grain and blend it with the surrounding floor color. Let dry for the time specified on the stain container.
  7. Seal and Blend In. Once the stain is dry, apply a thin coat of polyurethane finish that matches your floor's sheen level. Use a small brush and feather the edges to blend with the existing finish. Allow to cure completely, typically 24-48 hours, before walking on the area.