Can You Spot Repair Hardwood Floors? A Comprehensive Guide

Refinishing a hardwood floor is a major undertaking, often disruptive and costly. However, if your floor has only one or two worn areas while the rest of the finish is in good condition, spot repairs may be a more economical solution. Done correctly, a spot repair can be virtually unnoticeable, provided you match the finish and, if necessary, the stain.

Assessing the Damage

The first step in spot repairing a hardwood floor is to assess the extent of the damage. If the worn area is limited to a small section, spot repair may be a viable option. However, if the damage is more widespread, you may need to consider refinishing the entire floor.

Preparing the Area

Sanding the Spot

Once you’ve determined that spot repair is the way to go, start by sanding the affected area. Use a flexible Emory cloth sandpaper, starting with 180 grit and moving up to 240 grit. Sand with the grain, extending the sanding about an inch beyond the worn area to create a smooth transition.

Matching the Stain

If the surrounding floor was originally finished with a stained polyurethane, you may need to match the stain color. Test out a few wood stains to find the closest match, as the surrounding floor may have aged differently than the spot you’re repairing.

Applying the Finish

After sanding and staining the area, it’s time to apply the new finish. Use a high-quality polyurethane and a china bristle brush to apply a thin, even coat. Be sure to feather the edges to blend the new finish with the old.

Over time, the new finish will yellow and blend in with the surrounding floor, but it may never be a perfect match. To help dissipate the contrast, you can consider re-coating the entire floor with a fresh layer of polyurethane.