How to Remove Scratches From the Floor

Depending on the type of floor you have and what caused the scratches, there are a number of different ways to approach removing the marks left. You can also do a few things to prevent scratches from occurring in the first place by making just a few simple and practical changes. This will also depend on they type of floor you have.

How to approach removing scratches from your floor

• Firstly you should check what the finish on your floor is that you are dealing with. If you have an older floor then it is likely a wax finish, which are dealt with differently to floors with a polyurethane finish. Applying wax can be used on an already waxed floor but never on a polyurethane floor. If unsure you can check by placing some paint remover to the floor somewhere discreet. The finish will bubble if it is polyurethane and won't if is wax.
• The next thing you need to check is if they are just top surface scratches or whether they are in the hardwood. Those in the hardwood will need a little extra attention.

Removing the scratches

• Wood makes for excellent flooring because of it's durability. If you have a minor mark on a wax or stained floor then applying more wax to the area should be sufficient. Use a soft cloth to apply and then buff the area afterwards. Sandpaper can be used to do this and always buff in the direction of the wood grain. If the minor scratch is on a urethane finish then you should try rubbing it with a piece of steel wool, or dipping a scouring pad into spirits. Buffing it slightly afterwards for stubborn marks.
• For deeper scratches you will need to work a bit harder. Sand the area using sandpaper that steadily becomes finer. Remove all the debris with a vacuum cleaner and moist cloth. Wait until all the moisture is gone and apply some stain of the floor colour to the area. Be careful with the stain and add slowly, re-applying and allowing to dry.