Repairing Polyurethane Abrasion ???

[Al Launier]

We recently removed several carpet runners that covered hardwood hallway floors that I believe were finished with Polyurethane. We noticed that where one of these runners were (foyer) there is "line/strip" approximately 1"-2" wide that was apparently abraded by the movement/sliding of the runner which had a pretty tough abrasive backing. The runner was narrower than the runner & had apparently shifted to one side allowing direct contact with the floor. It appears that shifting of the runner from everyday walking caused the light abrasion.

• I was thinking of lightly buffing the area, but think it would leave a shiny area wider than the original strip,
• Or, if using something like Mineral Spirits would that change the finish of the Polyurethane?
• Or, if trying to brush (don't have a sprayer) more Polyurethane it would show up as a "touch up".

So, what is a good way to clear up the abrasion from the Polyurethane without smearing/spoiling the finish? Would like it to look "original"???

[Ruperto Mendiones]

If you can establish that the abrasion doesn't go through the finish layer, buffing would be a good first try. Solvents probably will not affect the finish [as they would for shellac] If buffing does not work, test pieces and trials would be the only sure way to proceed.

[Gary Muto]

I'm pretty sure that solvenets won't affecet teh poly finish. That's why they tell you to scuff sand between coats. without scuff sanding, there would be no adhesion.

I would lightly sand the area and feather (blend it into the adjacent area. Then I would try wiping on the finish to blend it in. If the finish is too shiny, you can always blend it in by rubbing with 0000 steel wool. Just give it a week to dry before any post finish sanding. You can use mineral spirits for sanding and scuffing.

[Jim Becker]

Buffing is a first step. If that doesn't work, screening and re-application is likely the best fix.

Solvents are not going to do anything for you.

[scott vroom]

Sounds like a good opportunity to upgrade your hallway floor finish