How to Repair Spots on Hardwood

It's natural for some parts of a floor to wear out before others -- high-traffic areas are usually the first to go, and other areas may be victims of scraping furniture legs or pet claws, spills or extra-high humidity. Refinishing a floor is a big deal, and if the floor has only one or two worn areas, while the rest of the finish is in good condition, it's more economical to make spot repairs. Done correctly, a spot repair is all but unnoticeable, provided you've correctly matched the finish and -- if necessary -- the stain.

Step 1: Vacuum the floor and then wash it with warm water and let it dry completely.

Step 2: Scuff the Finish. Scuff the worn spot with sandpaper. Use 150-grit paper if the finish isn't completely worn through or if the floor is finished with oil. Use 120-grit paper to sand the finish around a spot from which it has completely worn. The coarser paper will cut back the finish more efficiently. Sand with the grain and create a scuffed area larger than the spot you're repairing.

Step 3: Stain the spots, if the stain has also worn away. If possible, test this in an inconspicuous spot to be sure you have the right color. Staining can be done by:

In either case, be sure to really soak the area with the stain, and then wipe away any of the excess with a dry paper towel. If the color isn't dark enough, repeat the process and let the spot dry fully before adding a polyurethane topper.

Step 4: Add a coat of polyurethane to seal the color, the wood and add a layer of protection. Choose a sheen (satin, semi-gloss, gloss) and an oil-based or water-based polyurethane. Use a very small bristled paint brush or one larger, depending on the spot that needs refinishing, stroking with the grain of the wood. Let the finish dry, then scuff it with 150-grit sandpaper and apply another coat. Repeat if necessary.