For repairing old furniture, one of the most common issues is damaged wood finish. Whether it’s from wear and tear over time or accidental damage, scratches and dings on the surface can be unsightly and make your furniture look old and worn out. But don’t worry, in this tutorial, we’ll show you how to repair damaged wood finish!

With a few simple steps, you can easily restore the beauty of your wood furniture and make it look as good as new again.

Photo of repairing damaged wood finish with text overlay

Damaged wood finish is a common issue for furniture, especially if it has been in use for a long time. These scratches, dings, and discoloration can all contribute to a worn-out appearance.

And while some may fear that this damage is irreversible, you can actually successfully repair your furniture’s damaged wood finish with the right techniques.

Fixing damaged finish on wood furniture is important not only for aesthetic purposes but also to protect the wood underneath.

A damaged finish can leave the wood susceptible to further damage from moisture, heat, and other environmental factors.

Repairing it also helps to preserve and extend the life of your furniture. So don’t let that damaged wood finish linger, follow our guide to repair them in no time!

Table of Contents

Supplies Used for Repairing Damaged Wood Finish

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I also may earn from other qualifying purchases with other companies or get free product to review and use. All opinions are my own.

Wood Filler
Wood Glue
Sandpaper
Stain or Paint to match finish
Small Brush or Cloth
Old English

Just a few supplies are all you need to get started on tackling damaged wood finish. Most of these can be found at your local hardware store or online.

Assess Damage on Wood Furniture

Before you begin any repair, it’s important to assess the damage to your wood furniture.

Take a close look at the scratches, dings, and discoloration on the surface. This will help you determine the extent of the damage and what steps you need to take for repair. For chipped paint on wood here’s how to repair chipped paint on wood for the step by step process!

Don’t worry if you’re unsure about matching the color of your wood finish, as it can always be adjusted later.

The most important thing is to fix the damage and restore the structural integrity of your furniture before worrying about aesthetics.

Fill in Wood Damage

After assessing and identifying any areas that need filling such as scratches, dings, or even gaps in the wood, it’s time to fill them in using a wood filler.

This will help create a smooth surface for the next step of repairing the finish. Make sure to choose a filler that works for the size and depth of the damage.

Photo of applying wood filler to damaged surface

Use wood filler for scratches and dings – if you want more information on which one to use, here are your options for the best wood fillers for furniture.

Use wood glue for any areas where the wood may have come apart or cracked and then clamp it together until dry. Check out the best glue for repairing wood furniture here.

Here’s our guide on how to repair cracks in wood furniture to help you with this process. Once dry, sand down the repaired area to make it flush with the rest of the wood furniture.

Photo of sanding wood filler on furniture

Remember to follow the directions on your chosen filler product and allow enough time for drying before moving on to the next step.

This will guarantee that your repairs are strong and long-lasting. Here’s more on how to repair damaged furniture if you would like to explore other methods.

Match Repaired Wood Finish to Furniture

Now it’s important to match the color of the repaired area to the rest of your furniture.

This will guarantee a seamless and natural appearance. The best way to do this is by using a stain or paint that matches the existing finish.

If needed, you can also use multiple stains or paints to create a custom color for your repair.

Just make sure to test it on a small, inconspicuous area first before applying it to the entire repaired surface. Do this for a more accurate match and to avoid any potential mistakes.

Here’s our how to stain wood with paint post to learn more about the process of staining wood with paint!

Photo of applying stain after sanding wood filler

Once you are satisfied with the color match, apply the stain or paint carefully using a small brush or cloth going in the direction of the wood grain.

Make sure to blend it in with the surrounding area for a smooth and consistent finish. You may need to apply multiple coats until you reach the desired color and level of coverage.

You can also use Old English to help blend in the repaired area. This dark oil can be rubbed onto the wood to help hide scratches and dings, giving it a similar finish. Just make sure to use it sparingly and buff it out for a natural look.

Check out our post on wood stain repair for more tips on how to match the repair to the wood color and finish.

Tips for Preventing Damage on Wood Finish

Taking care of your furniture is key to preventing damage on the wood finish.

Regular cleaning and maintenance can go a long way in preserving its beauty and durability. Make sure to use gentle cleaners and avoid harsh chemicals that may strip away the finish.

Another great tip is to use coasters, placemats, and tablecloths on surfaces where items are placed frequently.

Also, avoid placing hot objects directly on the surface as it can leave burn marks. Taking these steps will help protect the wood finish from any potential damage.

Avoid placing wood furniture in direct sunlight, as it can cause the finish to fade and discolor over time. If possible, place furniture away from windows or use curtains or blinds to shield it from direct sunlight.

Make sure to regularly inspect your furniture for any signs of wear and tear. Catching small issues early on can prevent them from becoming major problems in the future.

And if you do notice any damage, don’t wait too long to repair it as it may lead to more serious and costly repairs down the line.

So don’t fret if your wood furniture’s finish is damaged – with the right tools and techniques, you can easily repair it and have it looking as good as new in no time.

Again, just remember to regularly care for your furniture and address any issues promptly to keep it looking beautiful and well-maintained.