What is the definition of a gouge in flooring?

A gouge in flooring refers to a cavity in the surface where material has been scooped out. This definition captures the essence of what a gouge is, emphasizing the removal of material, which typically results in a noticeable depression on the floor surface. Gouges are often caused by impacts, heavy objects being dropped, or sharp objects that can scrape away the material. These damages can compromise both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the flooring.

While a crack refers to a split or fissure along the surface, and a protrusion indicates something that is elevated above the surrounding area, neither describes the characteristic of a gouge, which specifically involves a loss of material rather than a separation or an upward bump. Likewise, a color difference pertains to the appearance of the material rather than a physical indentation in the floor itself. Therefore, understanding the definition of a gouge is crucial for identifying and assessing flooring damage accurately.