How to Remove Scratches from Wood Window Frames

Wooden window frames are beautiful and durable, but they are also susceptible to scratches and dents. With some creativity and proper materials, you can easily fix the damage. Here are a few tips on how to remove scratches from wood.

Wood Window Frame

How to remove scratches on your wooden frame using wood filler

When choosing wood filler, be sure to buy one that blends well with the rest of the window frame. Go for paintable or stainable fillers. If your window frame has deep scratches, you'll need to fill the scratch before finishing the repair. Follow these steps to get your window frames looking as good as new.

• Clean the scratched wood thoroughly using a degreasing cleaner. Dampen a sponge on a dishwashing liquid and water solution and wipe the wood down without soaking it. Don't use oil or grease as these make repairs difficult or impossible.
• Dry the wood well with a clean cloth and examine the scratches to determine that they are deep.
• Sand the scratch and the surrounding area using 220-grit sandpaper. Be careful not to chip the paint off the frame by sanding inwards towards the scratch. Make sure the scratch is smooth as possible.
• Take a small amount of wood filler and spread it on the scratched surface using a craft stick. Level out the wood filler with the stick. It doesn't need to be perfect since the material is sandable.
• Allow the wood filler to dry out the recommended drying time on the container label. If it's rainy or damp, it might take longer, so give it time.
• Once the filler has dried completely, sand it lightly until it's flush with the surface of the rest of the wood. Use a clean cloth to wipe away the sand dust. Wood filler can shrink; if this is the case, reapply the filler, wait for it to dry, and sand it. You can do this until you're satisfied with the results.
• You can use paint or stain to conceal the repair, depending on whether your wooden window frame is stained or painted. Apply a thin coat of paint or stain, feathering the edges.

How to use vinegar to remove deep scratches from wood

Using vinegar and oil for wood scratch repair is a tested and proven method for removing deep scratches. However, this formula only works if your wood is unsealed. It doesn't work on wood with lacquered or veneer finish. You don't have to sand or do any prep work before painting your wood window frame. This recipe is simple and requires only two ingredients: vinegar and olive oil.

• To make the solution, put ¼ cup of white vinegar in a bowl and mix with ½ cup of olive oil.
• Take a polishing rag, dip it into the mixture, and rub it on the wood. Be sure to cover the entire surface.
• Let it soak for a few hours and wipe off any excess oil using a dry cloth. Your wood should be looking new.

Why it works:

Since vinegar is acidic, so it cuts through cleaners and dirt, clogging the scratches. It strips the oils and dirt, while olive oil seeps into the scratches and tears and moisturizes the wood, helping it regain its vibrant color.

Products used to remove scratches from wood

Apart from vinegar and oil, many household items can help you fix those unsightly scratches on your wood window frame. Here are a few:

Iodine

Iodine is an ideal solution if your wooden window frame has a dark finish. You can find iodine at most pharmacies. Use a cotton swab to apply the iodine solution into the scratch, careful to stain the surrounding wood. Use a paper towel to wipe away excess iodine.

Tea

Place a teabag of black tea in a cup and spoon a few tablespoons of water onto the teabag. Let the tea steep until it's dark to match the shade of the wood. Using a cotton swab, dab the tea onto the scratches and wipe away any excess tea.

Mineral oil and pumice

You can rub out scratches on your wooden frame using a paste of mineral oil and pumice. You can get it from the hardware store in powder form, so you'll have to make a paste by adding a small amount of water. Get extra-fine-grade steel wool and use it to rub the paste onto the scratched surface. Use a damp paper towel to the wood and buff with a dry cloth.

Crayon

If you want a temporary fix, you can use crayon wax to cover up surface scratches. Use a crayon that closely matches your wood finish and draw in the direction of the scratch. Rub the scratched spot with your finger to blend in the crayon.

Instant coffee

Just like tea, coffee can help conceal scratches on the wood. Use coffee granules and water to make a paste, then rub it into the scratch.

Walnut

Oil from a walnut can cover up surface scratches in your wood window frame. Take a cracked walnut and rub the walnut meat into the scratch. Use a soft rag to polish the area.

Oil-based furniture polish

You can get oil-based furniture polish at any hardware store. Use extra-fine-grade steel wool to sand the damaged areas, then apply the polish and let it dry completely. If you want to soften the color, sand again.

How to fix cat scratches on wood trim

Cat Scratch

Cats haven't figured out how to open windows, but that doesn't stop them from trying. As a result, your wood trim gets scratched up. Follow these tips to repair the damage.

• Clean the wood trim with a damp rag to remove all the debris and dirt. Be careful not to over-saturate with water.
• Lightly sand the damaged area and wipe off all the dust.
• Fill in the scratches with wood filler putty, making sure to even out the putty. Let the putty dry.
• Sand the dried putty until it's even and smooth. Use a damp rag to wipe sanding dust.

Conclusion

Removing scratches from your window frame doesn't have to cost you tons of money. With a little effort, patience, and knowledge, you can restore your wood window frames to their original shine. If you want to transform your home and give it a facelift, book a free consultation with design experts at Budget Blinds.