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74. how to repair scratches in laminate flooring

How To Remove Laminate Flooring Scratches

Laminate flooring is a popular choice for homes due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. However, it is not immune to damage such as scratches, which can mar its appearance over time. This blog post will guide you through the process of repairing scratches on laminate flooring, ensuring your floors look as good as new. We’ll cover various methods suited to different types of scratches, from light blemishes to deeper gouges.

Scratch Resistant, but Not Perfect.

Laminate flooring is composed of several layers, including a wear layer, a design layer, a core layer, and a backing layer. The topmost wear layer protects against scratches and stains, but it can still be damaged with enough force. Understanding the structure of laminate flooring is crucial for effectively addressing any scratches.

Assessing The Damage

Before you start the repair process, assess the extent of the damage. This will help you choose the most effective method for fixing the scratches.

Examination Steps:

  • Clean the Area: Ensure the floor is free from dust and dirt to get a clear view of the scratch.
  • Depth Assessment: Determine if the scratch is superficial or if it penetrates through the wear layer.

Methods For Repairing Laminate Flooring Scratches

Depending on the severity of the scratch, there are several approaches you can take to repair your laminate flooring.

Minor Scratch Repairs

For light scratches, a simple DIY approach can often restore the look of your laminate.

Materials Needed:

  • Pencil or wax crayon matching the floor colour
  • Soft cloth

Procedure:

  • Fill the Scratch: Rub the pencil or crayon over the scratch to fill it in.
  • Buff the Area: Gently buff with a soft cloth to blend the repair into the surrounding area.
 

Strange, but popular Bonus Pro-Tip: Try a Walnut. Walnuts and Brazil nuts, when rubbed across the scratches can fill them in. The oils in the nuts absorb into the wood and because they’re both wood-toned, they can hide the scratches. 

This works for both light scratches, and semi-deep scratches. There’s actually a video of this here so you can see for yourself, but rub from side to side across the scratch, not long ways like the creator does. This will deposit smaller bits of the nut into the scratch and it’ll work a little better.

Deeper Scratch Repair

For more noticeable scratches that don’t go through the entire wear layer, a more intensive treatment is required.

Materials Needed:

  • Laminate floor repair kit (typically includes putty or filler, spatula, and finishing solution)

Procedure:

  • Apply Filler: Use the spatula to apply the filler into the scratch.
  • Smooth and Finish: Once the filler dries, smooth it down and apply any finishing solutions included in the kit.

Repairing Gouges

Deep gouges require the most attention to ensure a smooth, unnoticeable repair.

Materials Needed:

  1. Laminate floor repair kit or epoxy resin
  2. Colourant (if necessary to match the floor)
  3. Sandpaper

Procedure:

  • Fill the Gouge: Fill the damaged area with the putty or resin.
  • Colour Match: Tint the filler if necessary to match the floor.
  • Sand and Finish: Once dry, lightly sand the area to level it with the surrounding flooring.

Preventing Future Scratches

Maintaining your laminate flooring is essential to prevent future scratches. Here are some preventive measures:

  • Use Protective Pads: Attach felt pads to the legs of furniture.
  • Regular Cleaning: Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove abrasive particles.
  • Avoid Sharp Objects: Be cautious with heels, pet claws, and moving heavy furniture.

Conclusion

Repairing scratches on laminate flooring can help extend its lifespan and improve its appearance. Whether dealing with minor blemishes or more severe gouges, there are effective solutions that you can do yourself. By following this guide and taking preventive measures, you can keep your laminate floors looking pristine.

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It starts with a free home appointment and quote, to get booked in at a time that suits you, tap the “Get Started” button below and fill out the contact form!

Still Got Questions? Here's 10 FAQs!

Yes, many scratches on laminate flooring can be repaired easily using simple tools and materials. The ease of repair depends on the severity of the scratch.

The Walnut Tip from earlier in the post is actually a really underrated, low priced tip!

For minor scratches, you typically need a wax crayon, laminate repair pencil that matches the floor colour, or a walnut/Brazil nut and a soft cloth for buffing.

Deep scratches can be repaired using a laminate floor repair kit, which usually includes putty or filler, a spatula, and a finishing solution. Follow the kit’s instructions for best results.

Yes, products like the Minwax Laminate Floor Repair Kit or the Mohawk Finishing Products Fil-Stik can be effective for repairing laminate floor scratches.

Yes, you can prevent future scratches by using protective pads under furniture legs, regularly cleaning the floor to remove abrasive particles, and avoiding dragging heavy items across the floor.

Yes, gouges can be repaired using an epoxy resin or a laminate floor repair kit. You might need to tint the filler to match your floor and sand it down for a smooth finish.

Use a repair kit that allows you to mix colours to match your floor. Test the colour on a hidden area before applying it to the scratch.

If done correctly, minor repairs should blend well with the surrounding floor. For deeper scratches and gouges, using the right colour and following the proper steps will minimize visibility.

Yes, for minor scratches, household items like matching-colour crayons or even nuts (like a walnut) can sometimes fill and disguise scratches.

Regularly inspecting your laminate flooring, about once a month, can help you address scratches early and maintain the floor’s appearance. You can even just keep an eye out when you’re cleaning for scratches.

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