Repair Cigarette Burns on Hardwood Flooring

You may have to repair cigarette burns on your hardwood floor at some point. The damage may have been caused by a lit cigarette or hot ash. Although the burns constitute minor damages, they make a floor look old and worn. This reduces the aesthetic appeal of even the most exquisite of hardwood floors. Fortunately, you can restore the original condition of your floor with minimal costs. Below is a guide to help you quickly repair the damage.

Step 1 – To Clear Surface Marks

Put on a dust mask to avoid inhalation of sawdust. Safety glasses are a good idea to protect your eyes from fine debris. Rub each of the burns on the floor with your sandpaper. It is best to rub in the direction of the grain to prevent scratch marks on the floor. Clear the dust with a damp cloth.

Step 2 – Prepare a Paste

Obtain a powdered pumice stone and linseed oil from a wood retailer. Place 2 tablespoons of powder and 1 tablespoon of oil in a bowl. Mix the contents with a popsicle stick until you have a smooth paste. Use a soft, clean cloth to rub the paste onto the burn, in the direction of the wood grain. Rub until you notice the burn is cleared.

Step 3 – Polish the Floor

Use a microfiber cloth to apply polish onto the floor. Buff the floor in circular motions until it shines. For deeper burns, proceed as follows.

Step 4 – Scrape

Gently scrape away the burnt area with the tip of your pocket knife. Shave off only as far as the wood easily comes off. If you dig deeper, it’ll cause more damage to your floor. Clear away the debris with a small broom and dustpan.

Step 5 – Sanding

Smooth out the gouged out area with sandpaper. Clear away the debris with a soft-bristled brush then wipe with a damp cloth. Allow a couple of hours for the wood to air-dry.

Step 6 – Filling

Obtain wood filler that matches your floor. Fill the depression on the floor with a putty knife. Firmly press the filler into the floor and allow a slight mound at the surface. Let the filler dry overnight before you level.

Step 7 – Level the Surface

Use your sandpaper to smooth the dried putty until it is flush with the floor surface. Wipe away fine debris from the floor with a soft cloth.

Step 8 – Apply Varnish

Brush some varnish onto the repaired area with a paintbrush. Apply in short strokes, in the direction of the wood grain. It is best to apply another coat after the first dries.

Step 9 – Polish the Floor

Apply a suitable polish for your hardwood floor with a clean microfiber cloth. This helps to give the floor a uniform appearance. It also gives the floor higher protection from damages.