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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.

Wood stains last anywhere from two to five years, depending on exposure to the elements, your local climate, the type of stain, and the surface it’s on. For instance, vertical surfaces last longer than horizontal surfaces. Some types of woods, like dense hardwoods, will require a recoat yearly, as they are too dense for the stain to absorb. In any event, apply a recoat every 2 to 4 years. As for storage, a can of unopened stain can last up to 5 years, though results may vary.

If you recently splashed paint on the wrong area of a wooden object, remove it with a solvent or caustic paint stripper. Some paint that has yet to dry may be removable by hand with coarse sandpaper or a plastic scraper. Another trick for removing dried-on paint is rubbing a dab of nail polish remover on the paint to remove it, but avoid touching the bare wood surface.

Yes, you can tackle small rooms yourself if you're handy and have a flat, clean subfloor to work with. But seams must be sealed properly, or the barrier will fail. Any gaps will let moisture sneak through and defeat the purpose of installing this more expensive type of carpet padding. For larger rooms or areas, professional installation is usually worth the extra cost.