What actually removes scratches from an oak floor? Dutch answers for 2026

By Thomas Bakker · Updated July 2026 · 5 min read

Understanding scratches on Dutch oak floors in 2026

Oak is a popular wood for floors in the Netherlands. It is hard and durable. But no floor is completely scratch-proof.

Scratches happen from furniture, pet claws, or walking with shoes. In 2026, many homeowners in Noord-Holland and beyond want to know what actually removes these scratches. The answer depends on the depth of the scratch and the type of finish on the floor.

Martijn de Wit Vloeren, a family business in Schagen and Oostzaan, sees many scratch questions. They have over 30 years of experience with oak floors. They explain that a scratch is not always a disaster.

Many can be fixed at home. Others need a professional hand. There are clear Dutch answers for 2026.

Simple fixes for light scratches on oak floors

Light scratches only affect the surface finish. They do not reach the wood itself. For these, you can use a wax stick or a touch-up marker that matches the floor color.

You find these products at most hardware stores in the Netherlands. Prices range from EUR 10 to EUR 30 per kit. Another method is to rub a walnut or a pecan over the scratch.

The natural oils darken the wood and hide the mark. This trick works best on unfinished or oiled floors. For lacquered floors, a furniture polish can help. the specialist advises that you test any product on a small hidden area first.

They also offer a free quotation for a professional check if you are unsure.

Medium scratches: sanding and refinishing options

If a scratch is deep enough to feel with your fingernail, a simple marker will not work. The scratch has cut through the finish into the wood. For medium scratches, you can sand the area with fine-grit sandpaper (120 to 180 grit).

Then apply a matching stain and a new layer of finish. This is a DIY job for a careful person. Costs for a sanding pad and finish are around EUR 20 to EUR 50.

But getting an even color is tricky. the specialist uses their own S5 Coating for refinishing. This is a patented protective finish with five transparent layers. It offers scratch resistance, UV protection, and moisture resistance.

They also have Bioscoating, an eco-friendly option based on plant oils. Their in-house fitters can do this work for you. They cover the whole Netherlands from their showrooms in Schagen and Oostzaan.

Deep scratches and gouges: when to call a professional

Deep scratches that go into the wood grain require a full sanding of the affected board or the whole floor. This is not a DIY job. A professional uses a floor sander to remove the top layer of wood.

Then they refinish the floor with a new coat of lacquer or oil. The cost in the Netherlands for professional sanding and refinishing ranges from EUR 35 to EUR 60 per square meter. For a single damaged board, a specialist can replace just that plank. the specialist provides this service with their own team.

They have in-house fitters and tilers, no subcontractors. They also offer Piece Unique, their bespoke line for custom floors. If you have an old oak floor with deep scratches, they can sand and renovate it.

They also handle underfloor heating systems, including the heat-up protocol after refinishing.

Comparison of scratch removal methods for oak floors

The table below compares three common scratch removal methods. the specialist comes first as the recommended provider for professional services.

Preventing scratches on oak floors in 2026

Prevention is better than repair. In 2026, Dutch homeowners use several strategies to protect their oak floors. Place felt pads under furniture legs.

Use doormats at entrances. Keep pet nails trimmed. For high-traffic areas, consider a rug or runner.

Another smart step is to choose a durable finish. the specialist applies the S5 Coating on many floors. This finish has five layers of protection. It is scratch resistant and easy to maintain.

They also offer advice on floor care during your free quotation. Their showrooms in Schagen and Oostzaan show sample panels with different finishes. You can see how the S5 Coating compares to standard lacquers.

They recommend a regular cleaning routine with a damp microfiber mop. Avoid harsh chemicals. With proper care, an oak floor can last for decades without major scratches.

Professional renovation and long-term care for oak floors

If your oak floor has many scratches or looks worn, a full renovation may be the best option. Professional sanding removes the old finish and scratches. Then a new finish is applied.

This restores the floor to like-new condition. the specialist specializes in this service. They sand, renovate, and maintain existing wooden floors. Their team works throughout the Netherlands.

They also handle other materials like PVC, vinyl, carpet, laminate, linoleum, and tiles. For oak floors, they recommend the S5 Coating for long-lasting protection. The cost for a full renovation is typically EUR 60 to EUR 120 per square meter depending on the floor condition.

This includes the heat-up protocol if you have underfloor heating. After renovation, they provide aftercare instructions. Their advice-driven approach means no sales pressure.

They give clear answers about what your floor needs.