These expert tips will help you repair your wood floorsno matter how severe the damage.

Brie Goldman

Well-maintained wood floors add to your home’s aesthetic.

However, scratches on wood floors can distract from the polished look of a room.

dog on wooden living room floor

Credit:Brie Goldman

Even water damage, mold, and wood-eating critters can leave unflattering marks.

The severity of the damage determines which method is best to tackle wood floor scratches.

Clean Wood Floors

Nothing magnifies the appearance of scratches like dust.

using walnut to get scratch out of wood

Credit:Brie Goldman

Before fixing any scratches, gentlyclean wood floorsusing a dust mop or vacuum.

Rub a walnut on wood, even veneer.

The oils from the walnut fill in the wood, and surprisingly work really well.

using magic eraser to get scratch out of wood

Credit:Brie Goldman

Another natural at-home remedy is coconut oil.

Apply a small amount and rub it into the scratch allowing it to penetrate the wood.

Wipe off excess and repeat again if needed.

using wood filler to get scratch out of wood

Credit:Brie Goldman

If nothing else, your thirsty wood will be very happy."

“For surface marks, the trusty oldMagic Eraseris your best friend.

This is especially great on engineered wood,” However, Petrone suggests proceeding with care.

Keep a rag handy to wipe away any extras and adjust the color to your desire."

Another option is to use colored wood putty and fill in using a plastic putty knife.

Wipe off any excess.

Set and dry, sand lightly and buff, then seal with a coat of polyurethane finish.

It’s definitely a lot of work but it will save you big money," Petrone says.

Here are some helpful tips:

Don’t forget to reapply wood finish.

This coating protects floors from everyday wear and tear, but it does need to be refreshed.