How to Get Rid of Scratches on a Polyurethane Wood Floor

Quck answer

To remove scratches from a polyurethane wood floor, follow these steps:

1. Clean the floor: Start by sweeping or vacuuming the floor to remove any loose dirt or debris.

2. Assess the scratches: Determine the depth of the scratches. If they are minor surface scratches, you can try to repair them yourself. Deeper scratches may require professional help.

3. Sand the scratches: Use fine-grit sandpaper to gently sand the scratched area. Sand in the direction of the wood grain until the scratches are no longer visible.

4. Clean the sanded area: Wipe away any dust or debris from sanding using a soft, damp cloth.

5. Apply polyurethane: Use a small brush to apply a thin layer of polyurethane to the sanded area. Allow it to dry completely.

6. Buff the area: Once the polyurethane is dry, lightly buff the area with a soft cloth to blend it with the rest of the floor.

Remember to always test any products or methods on a small, inconspicuous area of the floor before applying them to the entire scratched area.


Polyurethane-finished floors are resistant to moisture and stains, but like any other surface finish, they can still get scratched. The combination of water or petroleum bases with synthetic resins, plasticizers, and other film-forming ingredients hardens over the wood to protect it. However, when the polyurethane is scratched, it breaks the protective barrier. Fixing a scratch on the surface finish before the wood is damaged will help protect your investment in the wood floor.

Step 1

Use a broom or vacuum to remove any dust and dirt from the scratch.

Step 2

Gently sand the scratch and the surrounding area with a 240-grit sandpaper sheet. Apply light pressure and sand in the direction of the wood grain.

Step 3

Take a clean cloth, dampen it with warm water, and wipe it over the affected area to remove any dust caused by sanding. Allow the area to dry completely.

Step 4

If the scratch has penetrated the stained wood surface, use a wood marker to apply a matching color stain to the wood.

Step 5

Dip the tip of a paintbrush into the polyurethane and wipe off most of it on a dry paper towel. This will help the repaired area blend in with the rest of the flooring.

Step 6

Brush the scratch with a dry brush. Avoid applying a heavy layer of finish. If necessary, additional coats of polyurethane can be applied after the first coat has dried for 24 hours to achieve a smooth surface.

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