Depending on the extent of the harm to your hardwood floors, you may be able to repair it without pulling the damaged planks. A soft wood filler can conceal shallow flaws so long as you get it in a color that matches your flooring. However, this method will not work if you have deep scratches or stains, in which case you will need to pull the damaged pieces and then replace them with new ones.
Rub good steel wool over the damaged region to roughen the surface for a good bond with the wood filler. Adhere to the grain of the timber to prevent generating new scratches.
Dampen a piece of cloth with mineral spirits and wipe the damaged region to eliminate debris and sanding dust. This also helps the wood filler bond together with the flooring.
Apply oil-based wood filler using a plastic putty knife and then force it in the damaged region. Fill the area so it’s level with the remainder of the ground or slightly elevated. Use a wood filler in a color that closely matches your hardwood flooring. Allow the wood filler dry thoroughly, according to the manufacturer.
Sand the patched area using a rotary tool and a sanding hint, or do it by hand using a sanding block to remove any excess wood filler and then smooth it flush with the surrounding surface.
Wipe the sanded area with a damp piece of fabric to remove sanding dust.
Use a lambswool applicator or natural bristle brush to use varnish or polyurethane to the patched area. This seals the patched area and combines its end with the remaining portion of the ground. Make sure you use the same end that was applied to the rest of the ground.