Get matched with top furniture refinishers in Lidgerwood, ND

Restoring furniture generally takes less time because the fixes involved are mostly surface-level cosmetic repairs. In most cases, a project like this will be completed in one to two days at most. By contrast, refinishing can take anywhere from several days to a couple of weeks because it requires sanding and treating damaged wood, adding a new stain, finish, or layer of paint, and drying time.

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.

Avoid using wood filler for structural repairs or areas with extensive damage. Wood filler is designed for cosmetic fixes like filling small holes, cracks, or surface imperfections, and it doesn't provide the strength needed for load-bearing repairs or large gaps. You also shouldn’t use wood filler in areas exposed to heavy moisture or extreme outdoor conditions unless it’s a product specifically rated for such environments. Wood replacement or a strong epoxy resin is a better solution for severe rot or structural damage.

Wood stain does go bad, but it will last in the can for between three and six years, provided you use proper storage techniques. Storing wood stain in open containers or in extremely low or high temperatures will cause your wood stain to become unusable much more quickly. Water- and latex-based wood stains typically last for just two to four years, while oil-based wood stains can last for three to six years.