Tools and Materials
Tools
- Putty knife
Mixing board
- Cleaning Gloves
Materials
- Cleaning Cloths
- Wax pencils
Laminate repair kit
- Floor Repair Markers
- Laminate Repair Putty
Traditional water-based wood putty is not always recommended for laminate flooring. Use products specifically labeled for laminate floor repair for best results.
Overview: Key Points
- Minor laminate floor scratches can often be repaired using wax pencils, repair markers or laminate repair kits.
- Always match the repair product color closely to your flooring for the best results.
- Clean the damaged area thoroughly before applying any repair material.
- Follow repair product instructions for application and drying times.
- Use laminate-specific repair putty for deeper scratches or small gouges.
- Avoid harsh solvents unless recommended, as they can damage the laminate finish.
- Replace planks if there is significant water damage, buckling or structural damage.
How to Repair Laminate Flooring
There are several DIY methods that can help repair light scuffs and scratches. These techniques work best for surface scratches, small chips and minor dents. If your laminate flooring is buckling, separating at the seams or shows signs of significant water damage, replacing the affected planks is usually the best solution.
Use a Wax Pencil
Wax pencils are effective for repairing minor surface scratches.
Step 1: Identify the Scratches
Carefully inspect your laminate flooring, especially in high-traffic areas. Locate all minor scratches so you can address them at the same time.
Step 2: Choose a Matching Wax Pencil
Select a wax pencil in a shade that closely matches your flooring. If you can’t find an exact match, choose the closest shade available.
Step 3: Clean the Floor
Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the scratched surface. Remove dust and debris before making repairs.
Step 4: Fill in the Scratches
Hold the wax pencil at a slight angle and rub it over the scratch using short, light strokes. Fill in the scratch gradually rather than pressing too hard.
Step 5: Buff the Area
Inspect the repair to ensure the scratch is filled. Gently buff the area with a clean cloth to remove excess wax and blend the finish. Avoid aggressive rubbing.
Use a Laminate Floor Repair Kit or Marker
Laminate flooring can chip or scratch if a heavy or sharp object is dropped on it. For deeper surface scratches or small chips, a laminate floor repair kit or repair marker may be the best option.
Step 1: Match the Repair Material
Choose a repair product that closely matches your floor color. Many laminate repair kits include multiple shades that can be blended to achieve a closer match.
Step 2: Clean the Area
Before applying any repair product, clean the damaged area with a soft cloth. Avoid harsh solvents unless recommended by the product manufacturer, as some cleaners can damage the laminate finish.
Step 3: Apply the Repair Product
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your selected product:
- Floor Repair Marker: Apply in light strokes, following the grain pattern of the flooring. Layer gradually until the scratch blends in.
- Laminate Repair Kit: Mix the colors as needed on a mixing board to match your flooring. Apply a small amount of filler to the damaged area using a putty knife. Smooth carefully.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times and application methods.
Step 4: Allow to Dry
Wipe away any excess material before it dries. Let the repair cure fully according to the product instructions before walking on the area.
Use Laminate Repair Putty for Deeper Damage
If wax pencils or markers aren’t sufficient, laminate repair putty can help fill deeper scratches or small gouges. For major damage, plank replacement is typically required.
Step 1: Select the Correct Putty
Choose a repair putty specifically designed for laminate flooring. Products made for laminate are formulated to bond properly and match the floor’s finish.
Step 2: Apply the Putty
Use a putty knife to apply enough putty to fill the scratch or gouge completely. Spread it evenly and smooth the surface so it sits flush with the surrounding floor.
Step 3: Remove Excess Putty
Carefully scrape away excess putty with the putty knife. Lightly wipe the surrounding area with a clean cloth to remove residue without disturbing the repair.
Step 4: Let the Putty Cure
Allow the putty to dry and cure fully according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Keep foot traffic, pets and children away from the area until it has hardened completely.
Ready to Get Started?
Here are some popular product categories Lowe’s customers trust when repairing their flooring.
Repairing Laminate Flooring: FAQ
Here are some common questions that come up when Lowe’s customers attempt to repair their laminate flooring.
How Do You Fix Scratches in Laminate Flooring?
Minor scratches can be repaired using wax pencils, laminate repair markers or laminate repair kits that match your floor color. Clean the area first and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
Can Deep Scratches in Laminate Flooring Be Repaired?
Deeper scratches or small gouges can sometimes be filled with laminate repair putty. However, severely damaged planks may need to be replaced.
Is Wood Putty Safe to Use on Laminate Floors?
It’s best to use repair products specifically designed for laminate flooring. Traditional wood putty may not bond properly or match the floor’s finish.
When Should You Replace Laminate Flooring Instead of Repairing It?
Replace laminate planks if there is heavy water damage, swelling, separation at the seams or damage to the locking system.