Repairing and Preventing Hardwood Floor Scratches in Cincinnati

Your hardwood floors might be the focal point of your home, but scratches and wear can take their toll over time, leaving you wondering how to restore their luster. Below, we dig into the art of hardwood floor care. When you need hardwood refinishing in Cincinnati, contact Cincy Preferred Flooring to get started.

Types of Scratches

There are three main types of scratches: surface scratches, which impact only the finish and not the wood itself; minor scratches, which penetrate the finish and slightly mark the wood; and deep scratches, which reach the wood's core. Each kind requires a different approach to repair and prevention, so correctly identifying them is critical for preserving the beauty of your hardwood floors.

How to Prevent Scratches

Begin by placing felt or rubber protectors beneath furniture legs to keep them from scratching the surface when moved. To decrease wear in high-traffic areas, use area rugs or runners with non-slip padding underneath. Encourage family and friends to take their shoes off before entering the house, since dirt and grit can behave like sandpaper on your floors. Trim your pet's nails on a regular basis to reduce the possibility of accidental scratching. Consider putting doormats at entry points to catch dirt and debris before it gets to your hardwood. 

How to Repair Scratches

Consider utilizing hardwood floor polish or specialized scratch repair solutions for surface scratches and minor flaws. These products efficiently conceal imperfections by filling up scratches and mixing them in with the surrounding wood. Deeper scratches that have entered the wood may require gentle sanding and the application of a matching wood stain before finishing with a protective lacquer. Always follow the manufacturer's directions and try any repair products in a hidden location first. If the scratches are too deep or numerous, the next best option is hardwood floor refinishing.

Hardwood Floor Refinishing in Cincinnati 

Are your hardwood floors dull, chipped, or fading? We can help! We provide professional hardwood floor refinishing for all types of hardwood, including oak, maple, and cherry. Whether you want them restored to their original luster or would like to change their appearance completely, our flooring restoration experts get the job done right. Give us a call at 513-849-8600 to learn more about our services in Cincinnati.