How to remove dark scuff marks on light hardwood floors?

12/14/2014 at 9:16:15 PM

You can try water and soap first. If these marks still there try "goo gone" which is something similar to "citrus-oil". But don't apply it directly on the floor, use a soft cloth and then rubed it off. Try it first in an inconspicuous spot like in a corner.

Good luck, hope this helps.

12/15/2014 at 12:43:00 PM

A pencil eraser should take these marks off the floor.

12/15/2014 at 2:28:19 PM

I am not sure if they are marks from moving furniture?? One was under where the bed was so not sure the cause.

12/17/2014 at 10:09:31 PM

I recommend using a cleaner specific for hardwood floors (such as Bona or Armstrong) which typically can be found are your local hardware store (Rona, Lowes, Home Depot) if a damp cloth with soap doesn't work.

I would not try using goo gone or DW40 or any other household cleaners as these products may soften and pull the finish and will prevent future refinishing from sticking.

If this doesn't work then I suggest taping the individual boards that are scuffed and giving them a very light sanding with 150grit or 180grit sandpaper so you don't remove too much finish.

The goal here is to sand just enought to get the scuff mark out especially if the floor is stained, you don't want to go down to bare wood and remove the color. Once you've lightly sanded out the scuff give the rest of the board a light sanding as well so when you go to apply some finish it will bond properly to the floor. If you sand out only the scuff mark and don't sand the rest of the board, the finish will not bond properly to the entire board and it will eventually peel. now to apply the finish in Satin or semi gloss depending on what sheen your floor is.

If the finish on the floor is water based you will need to use a water based product.

If the it's an oil finish you will need to use an oil finish. Because you only did a light sanding you should only need to apply 2 coats of finish. Use 180 grit to very lightly sand between coats to give proper adhesion for the next coat.

Peel off tape and let it dry!