LVT Flooring Repair Guide

Fixing Scratches, Lifts, and Damage

Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) is a popular flooring choice due to its durability and stylish appearance. However, like any floor, it can sustain damage from everyday use, such as scratches, lifting, or gouges. This guide will walk you through the process of repairing common LVT flooring issues using simple, clear instructions. Following these steps carefully will help you restore your floor’s finish and extend its lifespan. Always remember to prioritise safety and work in a well-ventilated area.

Tools and Materials Checklist

The tools and materials you need will depend on the type of repair you’re undertaking. Here’s a general list:

Replacement LVT planks or tiles (it’s always a good idea to keep spares from the original installation)
Utility knife with a sharp blade
Heat gun or hairdryer
Rubber mallet and tapping block
Putty knife or flat-bladed tool
Vinyl flooring adhesive or cold weld bonding compound
Seam roller or rolling pin
Soft cloths or rags
Scouring pad or fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., P320)
LVT repair kit (often includes wax fillers and a melting tool)
Masking tape
Vacuum cleaner or brush and dustpan

Step-by-Step Repair Instructions

The following instructions cover the most common LVT repairs. Choose the section that applies to your specific problem.

Repairing Scratches and Scuffs

Clean the Area: Start by thoroughly cleaning the damaged area. Use a mild soap and warm water solution to remove all dirt and debris. Dry the area completely with a soft cloth.
For Minor Scratches: Use the rough side of a scouring pad or fine-grit sandpaper to lightly go over the scratch. This helps to smooth out any rough edges. Wipe away any dust with a soft cloth. Then, apply a small amount of WD-40 to a clean cloth and gently rub it into the scratch to blend it in. Finish by applying a vinyl floor polish to the entire floor to create a protective layer.
For Deeper Scratches or Gouges: Use a specialised LVT repair kit. These kits usually contain wax sticks in various colours. Select the colour that best matches your flooring. Use the included melting tool to apply the wax filler into the scratch. Smooth the area with a putty knife and buff it to a seamless finish once dry.

Fixing Lifting or Curling Planks/Tiles

Clean and Heat the Area: Carefully clean the area around the lifting plank. Use a heat gun or a hairdryer on a low setting to gently warm the vinyl. This softens the material and the old adhesive underneath, making it more pliable. Be careful not to overheat the vinyl, as it can warp or melt.
Apply New Adhesive: Gently lift the curling edge with a putty knife. If there’s old adhesive, scrape it away from the subfloor and the back of the LVT plank. Apply a thin, even layer of new vinyl flooring adhesive or cold weld bonding compound to the subfloor using a notched trowel.
Secure the Plank: Carefully press the LVT plank back into its original position, ensuring it lies flat and is properly aligned. Use a seam roller or a rolling pin to apply firm, even pressure across the plank to ensure a strong bond.
Weigh it Down: Place a heavy object, such as a stack of books or a piece of furniture, on the repaired area for the amount of time recommended on the adhesive’s instructions (usually at least 24 hours). This ensures the adhesive cures properly and the plank stays in place.

Replacing a Damaged Plank or Tile

This method is for more significant damage that can’t be repaired with fillers, such as large tears, cracks, or deep gouges. The process differs slightly for “click-lock” and “glue-down” LVT.

For Click-Lock LVT

Remove Adjacent Planks: The easiest way to replace a click-lock plank is by starting at the closest wall and disassembling the flooring row by row until you reach the damaged piece. First, remove the skirting board. Then, carefully lift the planks, un-clicking them one by one.
Replace the Damaged Plank: Once the damaged plank is exposed, remove it and click the new replacement plank into its place.
Reinstall the Flooring: Click all the planks back into position, working your way back to the wall. Ensure the expansion gap is maintained and then replace the skirting board.

For Glue-Down LVT

Prepare the Damaged Area: Use a utility knife to score the damaged plank. Make diagonal cuts from each corner to the centre to create triangular sections. This makes it easier to lift without damaging adjacent planks.
Remove the Damaged Plank: Gently use a putty knife to pry up and remove the triangular pieces. Scrape away any old adhesive from the subfloor and vacuum the area to remove all debris.
Install the New Plank: Apply a new, thin layer of vinyl flooring adhesive to the cleaned subfloor. Carefully press the replacement plank into the space, ensuring its pattern aligns with the surrounding tiles.
Set and Cure: Use a seam roller to apply pressure to the new plank, helping the adhesive to bond properly. Place heavy objects on top and allow the adhesive to cure for the recommended time.

Troubleshooting and Prevention

Troubleshooting

Plank Still Lifting: If a plank continues to lift, the subfloor may not be level or clean. Re-check the subfloor for bumps or debris and ensure the new adhesive is applied correctly and has enough time to cure.
Repair Kit Doesn’t Match: LVT repair kits can sometimes be difficult to colour match. If the wax is not a perfect match, you may need to mix colours or consider a plank replacement for a flawless finish.
Seam is Visible: For glue-down LVT, an LVT-specific seam sealer can be applied to the edges to create a waterproof and seamless finish.

Prevention

Use Protective Pads: Place felt pads or furniture glides on the feet of all furniture to prevent scratches when moving items.
Regular Cleaning: Regularly sweep or vacuum to remove grit and debris that can cause scratches. Use a damp mop with a pH-neutral cleaner to keep your floor clean. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
Control Environment: Maintain a stable temperature and humidity in your home to prevent planks from expanding and contracting, which can lead to lifting and gapping.
Keep Spare Planks: The best defence against damage is having spare planks or tiles from the original installation. The colour will be an exact match, making replacements much easier.