Vinyl Plank Flooring Repair – All You Need To Know

A Quick Vinyl Flooring Introduction:

Before we get started, let us give you a quick intro about Vinyl Flooring. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) and Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) have revolutionized the flooring world. These floors offer a perfect blend of elegance, durability, and affordability. Ah! On top of that, it is a cost-effective alternative to natural wood.

Yes, there are LVPs that mimic natural wood extremely well. Vinyl Flooring has become the go-to choice for homeowners seeking the aesthetic appeal of hardwood without the associated maintenance headaches. However, like any flooring option, LVP isn’t impervious to wear and tear. Lion’s Pride Flooring has put together this guide that will walk you through identifying, addressing, and preventing common issues with your vinyl flooring to ensure the investment you made continues to shine for years to come. Ok, let’s get started.

Vinyl Plank Flooring Repair: Common Issues and Their Solutions

Vinyl Plank Flooring Repair – End Plank Separation

Imagine walking across your beautiful vinyl plank floor and suddenly feeling a slight gap under your feet. Yea, definitely not a good feeling right? So this is called “End plank separation” and is a common issue that can occur due to various factors, such as these:

• Humidity changes, causing expansion and contraction
• Physical shifting, especially in high-traffic areas
• Improper installation, particularly with click-lock systems

Solution:

Step 1: Before jumping into repairs, evaluate the extent of the separation. Minor gaps (less than 1/8 inch) may not require immediate action, as they might close naturally with seasonal changes.

Step 2: Prepare the area and thoroughly vacuum the gap to remove any dust, debris, or dirt that might prevent a tight closure.

Step 3: The suction cup technique

• Attach a strong suction cup to the plank you want to move.
• Using a rubber mallet, gently tap the suction cup to nudge the plank into place.
• Work your way down the row, closing gaps as you go.

Step 4: As you close gaps, you’ll likely create a larger gap at the end of the row. Ideally, this should be hidden behind your baseboard. If not, you may need to remove the baseboard, adjust the last plank, and reinstall the baseboard.

Pro Tip: For stubborn gaps, a plank-pulling bar (available at most hardware stores) can provide the leverage needed to close tight spaces. Now, if you do not want to go through all this hassle, reach out to Lion’s Pride Flooring and we will get right on it!

Vinyl Plank Flooring Repair – Side Plank Separation

Another type of separation is the “Side plank separation”. This type of separation can be particularly noticeable, creating long lines that disrupt the seamless look of your flooring. This issue often stems from environmental factors or installation mishaps.

Causes:

• Extreme temperature fluctuations causing contraction
• Improper acclimation before installation
• Insufficient expansion gaps around the room’s perimeter

Solution:

Step 1: Select a vinyl flooring putty that closely matches your floor color. Avoid using standard wood fillers or caulks, as these may not withstand foot traffic or adhere properly to vinyl.

Step 2: Clean the gap thoroughly using a vacuum and, if necessary, a thin, stiff brush to remove all debris. Allow the area to dry completely overnight.

Step 3: Apply the putty

• Cut the nozzle of the putty tube at a 45-degree angle for precise application.
• Steadily squeeze the putty into the gap, slightly overfilling to account for shrinkage.
• Use a plastic putty knife to smooth the surface and remove excess.
• Clean any residue on the planks with a damp sponge.

Step 4: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying time. Typically, it’s best to avoid foot traffic on the repaired area for at least 24 hours.

Vinyl Plank Flooring Repair – Plank Pop-Ups

The third type of nuances—and we dare say that is the worst one to deal with—affects the aesthetics and can also pose a safety risk.

Causes:

• Adhesive failure in glue-down installations
• Locking mechanism failure in click-lock systems
• Subfloor irregularities or moisture issues

Solution for adhesive failure:

Step 1: Carefully pry up the popped plank using a putty knife or specialized flooring tool. Work slowly to avoid damaging surrounding planks.

Step 2: Prepare the subfloor

• Scrape off any old adhesive from the subfloor using a floor scraper.
• Vacuum thoroughly to ensure a clean surface.
• If the subfloor seems uneven, consider using a floor leveling compound.

Step 3: Re-adhere the plank

• Apply a new layer of vinyl plank flooring adhesive to the subfloor.
• Carefully place the plank back into position.
• Use a floor roller to ensure even adhesion and remove any air bubbles.

Step 4: Weigh it down Place heavy objects (like books or weights) on the repaired plank for at least 24 hours to ensure proper bonding.

For click-lock systems: If the pop-up is due to a faulty locking mechanism, you may need to replace the plank entirely. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for plank replacement in floating floor systems.

For this one specifically we highly recommend getting a flooring contractor. Lions Pride Flooring is more than happy to take care over and make sure your floor gets back to good standing (no pun intended).

Vinyl Plank Flooring Repair – Surface Scratches

While vinyl plank flooring is renowned for its scratch resistance, it’s not entirely immune to surface damage. Addressing scratches promptly can prevent them from becoming more noticeable over time.

Types of scratches:

• Light surface scratches: These affect only the top layer and are often barely visible.
• Deep scratches: These penetrate the wear layer and may expose the design layer beneath.

Solution for minor scratches:

Step 1: Use a pH-neutral floor cleaner to remove any dirt or debris from the scratched area. Allow it to dry completely.

Step 2: Apply a repair pen

• Choose a vinyl floor repair pen that matches your flooring color.
• Gently apply the pen to the scratch, following the grain pattern of the plank.
• Wipe away any excess with a clean, soft cloth.

For deeper scratches:

Step 1: Use a vinyl floor repair kit. These kits typically include putty, colorants, and texturing tools to help match your floor’s appearance.

Step 2: Fill the scratch

• Apply the putty to the scratch, slightly overfilling.
• Use the texturing tool to mimic the surrounding wood grain pattern.
• Allow the repair to dry according to the kit’s instructions.

Step 3: Blend and seal

• Once dry, lightly sand the repair if necessary to blend with the surrounding area.
• Apply a small amount of vinyl floor sealer to protect the repair.

Vinyl Plank Flooring Repair – Gouges and Dents

Gouges and dents represent more significant damage that penetrates beyond the wear layer. While challenging, they’re not impossible to address.

Solution:

Step 1: Assess the damage If the gouge or dent affects more than 25% of the plank’s surface or penetrates to the core layer. If it is either of those scenarios, then we recommend replacing the floor; this would be the best option. If not, then proceed to step 2.

Step 2: Thoroughly clean the damaged area and ensure it’s completely dry.

Step 3: Fill the damage

• For minor dents, use a heat gun to gently warm the area. This can sometimes allow the vinyl to regain its shape.
• For gouges, use a color-matched vinyl floor repair putty.
• Apply the putty in thin layers, allowing each layer to dry before adding the next.
• Build up the layers until the gouge is slightly overfilled.

Step 4: Sand and texture

• Once dry, carefully sand the repair flush with the surrounding floor.
• Use a wood grain tool to recreate the texture of your flooring.

Step 5: Seal the repair Apply a thin layer of vinyl floor sealer to protect the repaired area.

Vinyl Plank Flooring Repair – Cupping

Cupping occurs when the edges of the planks rise, creating a concave shape across the width of each plank. This issue can significantly impact the look and feel of your flooring.

Causes:

• Excessive moisture exposure
• Dramatic temperature fluctuations
• Improper subfloor preparation or underlayment issues

Solution:

Step 1: Identify the root cause

• Use a moisture meter to check for excessive humidity or water intrusion.
• Inspect your subfloor for signs of unevenness or damage.

Step 2: Address environmental factors

• If high humidity is the culprit, use dehumidifiers to bring moisture levels down.
• For temperature-related cupping, maintain a consistent indoor climate and consider using window treatments to prevent direct sunlight exposure.

Step 3: In some cases, once the environmental issues are addressed, planks may return to their original shape. This process can take several weeks.

Step 4: If cupping persists or is severe, consult a flooring professional. They may recommend:

• Partial replacement of affected planks
• Complete reinstallation with proper moisture barriers
• Addressing underlying subfloor issues

Vinyl Plank Flooring Repair – Preventative Measures

Maintaining your vinyl plank flooring is key to preventing many of the issues discussed above. Here are some tips to keep your floors looking their best:

Regular Cleaning Routine

• Sweep or vacuum daily to remove abrasive particles.
• Use a damp mop with a pH-neutral cleaner weekly.
• Avoid harsh chemicals or steam mops, which can damage the vinyl.

Protect from Scratches

• Use felt pads under furniture legs.
• Place doormats at entrances to catch dirt and grit.
• Trim pet nails regularly.

Manage Moisture and Temperature

• Clean spills immediately to prevent seepage between planks.
• Maintain indoor humidity levels between 35-55%.
• Use window coverings to prevent prolonged direct sunlight exposure.

Proper Installation Practices

• Ensure your subfloor is clean, dry, and level before installation.
• Allow planks to acclimate to room temperature for at least 48 hours before installation.
• Follow manufacturer guidelines for expansion gaps around the perimeter of the room.

When to Seek Professional Help:

While many vinyl plank flooring repairs can be DIY projects, some situations warrant professional intervention:

• Extensive damage covering a large area
• Persistent moisture issues affecting the subfloor
• Structural problems causing floor unevenness
• Complex repairs that might void your warranty if done incorrectly

Remember, if your flooring is still under warranty, always consult the manufacturer before attempting significant repairs. Some warranties may be voided by DIY attempts, even if well-intentioned.

Time to Wrap This Up:

Vinyl flooring offers a beautiful, durable, and low-maintenance flooring option for modern homes. By understanding common issues and how to address them, you can ensure your floors remain in top condition for years to come. Regular maintenance, prompt attention to minor problems, and a proactive approach to prevention will go a long way in preserving the beauty and functionality of your vinyl plank flooring. If you already have the flooring material or even if you do not, let Lions Pride Flooring take care of the installation, you will be surprise how efficient and effective we are.