A parquet floor is one of the most elegant and warmest options for homes, offices and commercial premises. Its natural finish brings comfort, visual appeal and a welcoming feel that is hard to achieve with other floors. However, over time, with daily use, moisture, knocks or furniture being dragged, it is normal for scratches, loss of shine, worn areas or even small cracks to appear.

If you are wondering how to repair scratched parquet, in this article from Payresa, specialists in parquet in Malaga, we explain what to do depending on the type of damage, when you can fix it yourself and when it is best to call in professionals.

We will also answer one of the most common questions: how to remove scratches from parquet without making the floor worse, and what changes when the floor is a floating floor or laminate.

Why does parquet get scratched or worn?

Before repairing parquet, it is important to understand what caused the damage. Not all damage is the same or needs the same treatment.

The most common causes of scratched or worn parquet are:

Dragging chairs, tables, sofas or heavy furniture.
Sand, small stones or dirt stuck to shoes being brought in.
Using harsh cleaning products.
Too much water when cleaning.
Lack of regular maintenance.
Knocks or heavy objects being dropped.
Pets' claws.
Natural wear in high-traffic areas.
Damp or water leaks.

At Payresa we recommend first identifying whether the damage is superficial, medium or deep. This distinction is key to knowing whether a repair wax, a filler, localised sanding or professional parquet restoration will be needed.

How to repair worn parquet according to the type of damage

Parquet can suffer from different problems: scratches, loss of shine, damp stains, cracks, splinters or lifted boards. Each case needs a different solution.

Below, we explain what to do in each situation.

Repairing scratches in parquet

Scratches are one of the most common problems with wood floors. They can appear from moving furniture without protection, dragging chairs, walking in unsuitable footwear or simply from daily use.

If you want to know how to repair scratches in parquet, the first step is to assess how deep the scratch is.

Superficial scratches in parquet

Superficial scratches mainly affect the varnish or protective layer of the parquet, but do not go deep into the wood.

To repair them, you can follow these steps:

Clean the affected area thoroughly with a soft, dry cloth.
Remove dust, sand or any traces of dirt.
Apply a liquid repair product made specifically for parquet.
Spread the product in the direction of the wood grain.
Buff gently with a microfibre cloth.
Leave it to dry for the time stated by the manufacturer.

This type of repair is usually enough when the scratch can barely be felt and only affects the shine or surface finish.

At Payresa we advise against all-purpose products that are not designed for wood floors, as they can leave marks, alter the colour or create a greasy layer that is hard to remove.

Medium scratches in parquet

When you can feel the scratch as you run your hand over it, but it has not seriously broken the wood, you may need a repair wax, a touch-up marker or a filler in the same shade as the parquet.

The recommended procedure is:

Clean the damaged area.
Choose a wax, filler or marker in a colour similar to the parquet.
Fill the scratch carefully.
Remove any excess with a plastic spatula or soft cloth.
Buff the area gently.
Apply a protective product compatible with the floor's finish.

This method helps disguise scratches and protects the wood from further damage.

Deep scratches in parquet

Deep scratches are those that go through the protective layer and reach the wood. In these cases, a simple wax may not be enough.

To repair parquet with deep scratches, you may need to:

Lightly sand the affected area.
Apply a special wood filler.
Match the shade with stain or a repair product.
Seal the surface.
Apply varnish, oil or a protective finish.

This process requires more precision, as incorrect sanding can leave visible marks or uneven patches. If the damage is extensive or affects several areas of the floor, the best thing is to contact a specialist team such as Payresa, especially if you want an even, long-lasting result.

How to fix scratched parquet without replacing the whole floor

One of the advantages of parquet is that, in many cases, it can be repaired without having to replace the whole floor.

To fix scratched parquet, you can follow these general recommendations:

Clean the surface before repairing
Never apply repair products over dust or dirt. It can make the finish worse.
Identify the type of scratch
A superficial scratch is not the same as a deep crack. The treatment must suit the damage.
Use products made for parquet
Avoid abrasive cleaners, bleach, ammonia or products not compatible with wood.
Match the shade of the floor
If you use wax, filler or a marker, choose a colour as close as possible to the parquet.
Protect the area after repairing
After the repair, it is advisable to apply a sealer, varnish, oil or protective product, depending on the type of finish.
Do not overuse water
Excess moisture is one of parquet's worst enemies.

At Payresa we recommend checking the overall condition of the floor before carrying out DIY repairs, as a visible scratch is sometimes just a sign that the varnish is worn and the parquet needs a more thorough restoration.

How to bring the shine back to parquet

Loss of shine is a common sign of wear. Over time, parquet can look dull, matt or aged, especially in through areas such as hallways, living rooms or entrances.

To bring the shine back to parquet, you can follow these steps:

Sweep or vacuum the floor to remove dust and particles.
Clean with a very well wrung-out mop.
Use a cleaner made specifically for parquet.
Avoid soaking the floor.
Dry the surface with a microfibre mop.
Apply a wood-compatible polish if the finish allows it.

Although there are home remedies such as vinegar mixtures, at Payresa we recommend using them with caution. Vinegar can be too acidic for some finishes and, if overused, can damage the varnish or alter the natural shine of the parquet.

The safest option is to use products formulated specifically for wood floors or to consult professionals before applying home remedies.

Often the wood is not damaged: what has worn away is the protective finish. In that case, after a thorough clean, a wood restorer or nourishing product compatible with the existing finish is usually enough, restoring an even look without saturating the wood.

When is polishing parquet not enough?

Polishing parquet can improve its appearance if the wear is superficial. However, it does not always solve the problem.

You may need professional restoration if:

The parquet has many dull areas.
There are deep scratches.
The varnish is peeling.
There are stains that will not go away.
The wood is dried out or cracked.
The floor is uneven.
There are areas blackened by damp.

In these cases, professional sanding and varnishing may be the best option to restore the floor's original look: it removes accumulated damage, brings back the colour and allows a tougher finish to be applied. If you want to know how it is done and what the cost depends on, see our article on the cost of sanding parquet.

Repairing water-damaged parquet

Moisture is one of the trickiest problems with parquet floors. A leak, seepage, a plant pot losing water or overly wet cleaning can cause stains, swelling or lifting of the boards.

If the parquet has got wet, it is important to act quickly, but without applying harsh heat.

What to do if parquet gets wet

If you find water on the parquet:

Remove the water immediately with dry cloths.
Ventilate the room.
Do not use hairdryers or heaters directly on the wood.
Avoid walking on the affected area if it has lifted.
Look out for bulging, stains or gaps between boards.
Contact professionals if the damage does not improve.

Applying sudden heat can cause cracks or warping. The wood needs to dry in a controlled way to reduce the risk of permanent damage.

How to repair parquet lifted by damp

When damp has caused the parquet to lift, the repair will depend on how badly it is affected.

In mild cases, it may be enough to dry the area properly and stabilise the wood. In more serious cases, it may be necessary to:

Remove the affected boards.
Check the moisture level of the subfloor.
Replace damaged pieces.
Match the finish.
Sand and varnish if necessary.

At Payresa, as parquet specialists in Malaga, we advise against trying to force lifted boards back down, as they could break or damage the pieces around them.

Repairing splintered or cracked parquet

Splinters and cracks can appear from knocks, dry air, movement in the wood or advanced wear.

If the damage is minor, you can use a special wood or parquet filler. The process would be:

Clean the crack thoroughly.
Apply filler in the right colour.
Fill the damaged area.
Remove the excess.
Leave it to dry.
Sand lightly if necessary.
Protect with a compatible varnish, oil or sealer.

If the board is badly damaged, split or warped, it will probably need replacing. In that case, it is best for the repair to be done by a professional to avoid differences in level, colour or finish.

How to remove scratches from floating floors or laminate flooring

Not everything that looks like parquet is solid wood. On floating floors and laminate flooring the surface is a protected decorative layer, so it cannot be sanded like a wood parquet floor.

Light scratches: clean the area and use touch-up waxes or markers in the same shade, removing any excess with a soft cloth.
Deeper scratches: fill with a filler or wax made for laminate and level it with a plastic spatula.
Badly damaged boards: with click systems, the cleanest solution is usually to replace the affected board. It is best done by a professional so as not to damage the neighbouring boards.

Engineered wood floorboards may allow light sanding, depending on the thickness of the hardwood layer: always check with the manufacturer or a specialist before sanding.

Common mistakes when trying to repair parquet at home

Using abrasive products or all-purpose cleaners.
Mopping with too much water.
Mixing oils, waxes and varnishes that are not compatible with each other.
Sanding without control or without the right machinery.

Many of these mistakes turn a simple repair into a full restoration.

How to prevent scratches in parquet

As well as knowing how to repair scratched parquet, it is important to prevent new damage. Good maintenance can greatly extend the life of the floor.

These tips will help you protect your parquet:

Fit felt pads to the legs of chairs, tables and furniture.
Avoid dragging heavy furniture.
Use rugs in high-traffic areas.
Clean with a dust mop or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush.
Avoid abrasive products.
Do not mop with too much water.
Dry up any spilt liquid quickly.
Keep pets' claws short.
Avoid walking in damaged heels or shoes with stones in the soles.
Put a doormat at the entrance and, if you can, wear shoes just for indoors.
Protect the base of furniture with a cloth when you need to move it to clean.
Use products made specifically for parquet.

At Payresa we stress that prevention is key. Many parquet repairs can be avoided with small daily care habits.

When should you call a professional to repair parquet?

Although some superficial scratches can be fixed at home, there are situations where it is better to turn to specialists.

We recommend contacting Payresa if:

The parquet has deep scratches.
There are areas lifted by damp.
The floor has lost a lot of its shine.
There are dark stains or persistent marks.
There are significant cracks or splinters.
Several boards are loose or damaged.
You want to sand and varnish the whole floor.
You do not know which product to use.
You want an even, professional finish.

The wrong treatment can make the parquet worse. That is why, if the damage is significant, calling in professionals can save you time, money and future problems.

Payresa, parquet specialists in Malaga

At Payresa we specialise in installing, maintaining and repairing wood parquet in Malaga. Our team works with solutions suited to each type of wood floor, assessing the real condition of the floor and applying the most appropriate treatment in each case.

Whether it is repairing scratches, bringing back the shine, treating damp damage or restoring worn parquet, at Payresa we help you give your floor back its cared-for, elegant and lasting look.

If your parquet is scratched, dull or deteriorated, you can contact Payresa for professional advice and to find the best solution for your home, office or commercial premises.

Frequently asked questions about repairing scratched parquet

How do you repair scratched parquet?

To repair scratched parquet, you first need to assess how deep the scratch is. If it is superficial, you can use a liquid repair product, wax or polish made for parquet. If the scratch is deeper, you may need to apply filler, sand lightly and protect the area with varnish, oil or sealer.

How can you repair scratches in parquet easily?

To know how to repair scratches in parquet easily, first clean the area, apply a repair wax or a specific product in the same shade as the wood and buff gently with a microfibre cloth. If the scratch is deep, the best thing is to consult specialists such as Payresa.

Can scratched parquet be repaired without sanding?

Yes, if the scratches are superficial. In those cases, a wax, a repair marker or a liquid polish made for parquet may be enough. However, if the damage has gone into the wood, the area will probably need sanding or a professional restoration.

What product should you use to fix scratched parquet?

It depends on the type of damage. For light scratches you can use repair wax, wood markers or specific polishes. For deeper damage, parquet filler, sealer and varnish can be used. At Payresa we always recommend choosing products compatible with the type of wood and the floor's finish.

How do you remove deep scratches from parquet?

Deep scratches usually need a more thorough treatment. Normally the area is cleaned, sanded lightly following the wood grain, filled if necessary and given a protective finish. If the scratch is very visible or affects several boards, it is better to contact professionals.

Is vinegar good for cleaning parquet?

Vinegar is used in some home remedies, but it should be used with great caution. Being acidic, it can affect the varnish or finish of the parquet if used often or at high concentrations. The safest option is to use products made specifically for wood floors.

How do you restore the shine of parquet?

To restore the shine of parquet, first clean the floor with a dust mop or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush. Then use a cleaner made for parquet and dry the surface well. If the floor still looks dull, you can apply a compatible polish or ask Payresa to assess whether it needs buffing or varnishing.

What should I do if the parquet has lifted because of water?

If the parquet has lifted because of water, do not try to force it down or apply direct heat. Remove the moisture, ventilate the room and consult professionals. In some cases the affected boards will need replacing and the moisture level of the subfloor will need checking.

When should parquet be sanded and varnished?

Parquet should be sanded and varnished when the wear is widespread, there are many scratches, the varnish has deteriorated or the floor has lost its protection. This process renews the surface and restores the original look of the wood.

Does Payresa repair parquet in Malaga?

Yes. Payresa has experience installing, maintaining and repairing parquet in Malaga. Its team can help you repair scratched parquet, treat damp damage, restore the shine of your floor or carry out a full professional restoration.

How long does well-maintained parquet last?

Well-maintained parquet can last many years. Its lifespan will depend on the type of wood, daily use, maintenance and the quality of the installation. With proper cleaning, protection against moisture and timely repairs, parquet can stay in very good condition for decades.

Repairing scratched parquet is possible if the type of damage is correctly identified and the right treatment is used. Superficial scratches can be fixed with repair products, waxes or polishes, while deep damage, cracks or damp problems need more specialised work.

If you want to know how to repair scratches in parquet without risking further damage to the floor, the best thing is to get professional advice.

At Payresa, parquet specialists in Malaga, we help you restore the beauty, shine and durability of your wood floor with solutions tailored to each case.

Get in touch with us, with no obligation, for a personalised quote tailored to your needs or to answer any other questions you may have.

How to repair scratched or worn parquet and remove scratches