Back
Technical insights 08/05/2025

How to remove scratches from interior doors

How to remove scratches from interior doors
Interior doors are fundamental elements in a home's decor; a scratch or imperfection on their surface can disrupt the aesthetic harmony of the space, becoming a jarring detail. Fortunately, several solutions exist to restore your doors to their original splendor. In this guide, we will explore how to remove scratches from doors, analyzing the most effective methods based on the type of damage and material.

Identifying the nature of the damage

Before proceeding with any intervention, it is essential to carefully assess the extent of the scratch. A precise diagnosis allows for the selection of the most appropriate repair strategy, avoiding unnecessary or, conversely, inadequate interventions.

Minor imperfections and superficial scratches

These are the most common marks, often caused by accidental impacts, pets, or simple daily use. They are light abrasions that affect only the outermost layer of the finish (paint, lacquer, or laminate) without compromising the underlying wood structure. Generally, when you run a finger over the surface, the groove is barely perceptible.

Deep and structural damage

A scratch is considered deep when it cuts through the finish layer and reaches the door's raw material. These grooves are noticeable to the touch and sight, often exposing the wood or substrate beneath. In these cases, a simple cosmetic touch-up is not enough, and a more structured intervention or the help of a professional may be necessary.

Methods for repairing superficial scratches

For minor imperfections, numerous solutions can restore the door's appearance with quick and effective interventions. The choice depends on the material and finish of the door itself.

Waxes and touch-up Pens: the quick fix

Wax sticks and touch-up pens are excellent solutions for concealing scratches on wooden or lacquered doors. These tools, available in a wide range of colors, allow you to fill the groove and even out the surface with extreme ease.

  • How to use them: After cleaning the area, apply the wax or the pen's ink directly onto the scratch, removing any excess with a soft cloth. The result is an almost invisible and immediate repair.

DIY solutions: paints and enamels

For a more durable repair, especially on lacquered or painted doors, you can use specific enamels or paints. It is crucial to choose a product of the same color and finish (matte, gloss, or satin) as the door.

  • Repairing scratches on lacquered doors: For these delicate surfaces, it is advisable to use a specific lacquered enamel. Apply a small amount of the product with a fine-tipped brush, trying to stay within the groove. Once dry, you can gently sand it with very fine-grit sandpaper to even it out.
  • Scratches on wooden doors: For painted wood, you can use a paint of the same type and color. If the wood is natural or wax-treated, you can opt for specific oils or pastes that nourish the material and mask the imperfection.

Pastes and powders: masking abrasions

There are also very fine abrasive pastes or specific powders that, when carefully rubbed on the surface, help reduce the visibility of the lightest abrasions on painted or lacquered doors, polishing and evening out
the treated area.
Methods for repairing superficial scratches

When to call a professional

Not all damage can be fixed with a DIY approach. Attempting to repair a deep scratch with inadequate methods can worsen the situation, permanently compromising the door's aesthetic. 

It is time to call an expert when: 

  • The scratch is too deep and has removed a significant amount of material.
  • The door has structural damage, such as a crack or a split.
  • The finish is particularly valuable or complex to replicate, such as special lacquers or artisanal workmanship.

A professional will know how to intervene by filling, repainting, or, if necessary, replacing the damaged section, ensuring a result that preserves the door's elegance and its aesthetic consistency with the environment.
When to call a professional

The Importance of Prevention and Maintenance

Prevention is always better than cure. Proper maintenance of interior doors not only protects them from future damage but also prolongs their beauty and functionality over time.

  • Use door stops: Applying adhesive bumpers or floor-mounted door stops prevents handles from hitting walls, causing damage to both.
  • Regular and correct cleaning: Consistent cleaning is the first step to good maintenance. It is essential to use products suitable for the specific material of the door. For example, it is useful to know how to clean wooden doors without damaging their finish, or the correct methods for whitening doors that have yellowed over time.
  • Attention to detail: Do not forget the accessories. A complete guide to cleaning door handles helps maintain the impeccable appearance of the entire structure.

Adopting a care routine is the secret to preserving the aesthetic value of your doors. For a deeper dive, our complete guide to door maintenance offers a detailed overview for every type of material and finish. By following these tips, you can tackle the repair of scratches on doors with greater confidence, restoring their impeccable elegance to your spaces.