Get matched with top furniture refinishers in Hermantown, MN

If the scratch is large enough that it compromises the integrity of the wood, a wood filler probably won’t be enough to fix the problem. In that case, you might need to sand and refinish the entire floor or replace a board. If you do use a filler, use one that’s appropriate for the scratch. Water-based wood fillers work for small gaps or gouges, while epoxy has added strength to fill larger scratches and gaps.

When browsing the hardware store, you may wonder about wood putty versus wood filler. Wood putty is made with plastic adhesive, whereas wood filler is made from sawdust or wood products. 

The main difference is that people use wood filler to fix the interior portions of wood. Wood putty contains chemicals that could damage the inside of wood, so it's best for exterior sections. If the crack or hole goes into the middle of the lumber, it's the right product for the job.

The cost to refinish furniture varies significantly depending on the type of furniture, its material, and its age, but the average cost is about $600 per piece. For larger pieces or antique pieces that require greater care, you could pay up to around $1,000 per piece for refinishing. Small pieces of furniture like bar stools or dining chairs usually cost between $100 and $400 each. Your refinishing professional might charge by the hour rather than by piece, in which case you would expect to spend $40 to $100 per hour of work required.

When water penetrates wood, the wood swells, causing the wood and veneer to separate. This separation creates bubbles on the surface of your furniture. If water spills on wood veneer, it needs to be dried ASAP. Surface spills can cause minor damages like white spots and blushing, but if you’re slow to action, you’re looking at more work—and spending—to restore your wood veneer.