How to Repair a Damaged Hardwood Floor

Hardwood floors are susceptible to damages like splits, cracks, gaps, buckling, cupping, scratching, staining and warping. Some of these damages are inevitable and some occur due to lack of proper care by the homeowners. However there is no need to worry as all these damages to hardwood floors can be repaired by you if you are a do-it-yourselfer or by hiring professionals. These repairs can be carried out at a fraction of the cost of replacing the floor so there is no reason why you should wait to get them repaired. In fact if you take up the repairs when the damages are minor then you can prevent costly repairs later on. Below are some tips on how to repair damaged hardwood floor that will help you to keep your floor looking good until it is time for complete replacement.

Hardwood Floor Repair: Repairing Scratches.

Scratches are a part of normal wear and tear of hardwood floors in the home. The are caused while sweeping, wiping spills, grit on the soles of shoes, pets, moving furniture or when sharp objects are dropped on the hardwood floor. With some caution scratches can be reduced but it is impossible to avoid them completely.

To repair scratches rough up the area slightly with steel wool or sand paper. You should rub in a circular motion or in the direction of the wood grain so that the wood is not damaged. Using a soft cloth dipped in mineral spirits wipe of the area of any wood particles and dust. After the spot has dried up completely paint the area with a fine paintbrush dipped in the floor finish that was used originally. Make sure to apply just adequate finish so the repaired spot matches with the surrounding area. Color sticks and touch up kits are also available in stores for this purpose.

Hardwood Floor Repair: Repairing Cracked or Split Wood.