Vinyl plank flooring is a popular choice for homeowners thanks to its durability, affordability, and stylish appearance. But even the toughest vinyl can fall victim to wear and tear. Luckily, most vinyl plank repairs are within the reach of DIY possibilities.

If you are looking at a scratched, separated, gouged or even a torn area on your vinyl flooring – know that it can be repaired!

All you need to do is follow this guide and learn how to repair vinyl plank flooring. We’ll cover it all, from identifying the problem to restoring your floor to its former glory.

A Step-By-Step Guide on How to Repair Vinyl Plank Flooring

Step#1 – Identifying and Marking the Damaged Area

The first step in how to repair vinyl plank flooring is to pinpoint the culprit. Carefully examine your floor for any cracks, chips, gouges, or gaps between planks. Once you’ve located the damage, it’s crucial to mark the affected area for removal. Use a ruler and a sharp pencil to create precise lines around the damaged plank(s). This ensures a clean cut and minimizes the risk of further damage to surrounding planks.

Step#2 – Preparing the Surrounding Vinyl Planks

Before diving in with your cutting tool, repairing vinyl plank flooring requires some prep work. You’ll need to access the damaged plank by carefully removing the baseboard or molding near the affected area.

A pry bar can be helpful here, but be gentle to avoid damaging the molding itself. Next, use a putty knife to gently pry up the edges of the surrounding planks, just enough to expose the damaged piece.

Step#3 – Removing the Damaged Vinyl Planks

Now comes the removal of the damaged plank. Grab your trusty utility knife and follow the lines you marked earlier. Cut slowly and steadily, ensuring a clean separation from the surrounding planks. Once the cut is complete, carefully lift and remove the damaged plank.

Know that patience is key! You don’t want to accidentally damage any adjacent planks in the process.

Step#4 – Cleaning the Subfloor

With the damaged plank out of the way, it’s time to clean the subfloor. This ensures a smooth and level surface for your new replacement plank. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove any debris, dust, or old adhesive from the exposed subfloor area. A damp cloth can be used to wipe away any remaining dirt or grime.

Step#5 – Measuring and Cutting the Replacement Plank

Repairing vinyl plank flooring involves some precision work. Before heading to the hardware store, carefully measure the dimensions of the removed plank. Accuracy is key here!

With the measurements in hand, head to your local hardware store and purchase a replacement plank that matches the style and color of your existing floor. A perfect match will ensure a seamless repair and maintain the overall aesthetic of your space.

Step# 6 – Installing the New Vinyl Plank Flooring

Now, let’s move on to the most crucial part, installing the new plank!

If you’re wondering how to repair vinyl flooring in the best possible way, well – it depends on your specific flooring type. Here’s a breakdown for two common scenarios:

• Glue-down Vinyl Plank Flooring: Apply vinyl plank adhesive to the back of the new plank, following the manufacturer’s instructions for application amount and drying time. Carefully position the new plank in the designated space and press it down firmly to ensure proper adhesion to the subfloor. Use a roller to apply even pressure across the entire plank.
• Click-Lock Vinyl Plank Flooring: These planks have interlocking edges that allow for a quick and easy installation. Simply angle the new plank’s edge into the existing plank’s groove and gently press down until you hear a satisfying “click.” Repeat the process until the new plank is securely locked in place.

Securing the Replacement Vinyl Plank

Regardless of your installation method (glue-down or click-lock), once the new plank is in position, it’s crucial to secure it properly. For glue-down planks, use a roller to apply firm pressure and ensure proper adhesion to the subfloor. For click-lock systems, double-check that all the planks are securely clicked together, forming a tight and seamless connection.

Replacing Baseboard or Molding

With the new plank firmly in place, it’s time to reattach the baseboard or molding you removed earlier. This will cover any expansion gaps and restore the finished look of your floor.

Allowing for Adhesive Drying

If you used glue-down vinyl plank flooring, it’s essential to allow the adhesive to dry completely before walking on the repaired area. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended drying time. Patience is key here! Walking on the floor too soon can disrupt the adhesive bond and compromise the repair.

So, that’s how to repair vinyl plank flooring all by yourself!

How to Fix Common Issues With Vinyl Plank Flooring

While repairing vinyl plank flooring focuses on replacing damaged planks, there are other common issues that can arise with vinyl flooring. Here’s a quick guide to addressing some of the most frequent problems regarding vinyl plank flooring:

1. End Plank Separation

Those tiny gaps between your floor and the wall (end planks) can be an eyesore and collect dust. Here’s how to address end plank separation:

Vacuum Power: First things first, grab your trusty vacuum cleaner. Those pesky gaps can harbor dust and debris, preventing the planks from closing properly. A thorough vacuuming might be all you need to bring the planks back together.

Suction Cup: If a simple vacuum doesn’t do the trick, a suction cup can be your hero. Attach a suction cup to the separated plank and gently apply pressure with a rubber mallet to nudge it back into place. Repeat this process, working your way along the gap until the planks are flush.

2. Side Plank Separation

Similar to end plank separation, side plank separation occurs when gaps form between the long edges of vinyl plank flooring. To repair, begin by selecting a vinyl flooring putty that closely matches your floor color for a seamless finish, or opt for a vinyl flooring seam sealer for a more permanent, waterproof bond. Before application, thoroughly clean the gap with a vacuum to remove all dust and debris. For small gaps, apply a thin line of putty using the packaging’s applicator nozzle, then smooth with a plastic putty knife. For larger gaps up to ¼ inch, use seam sealer applied with a fine-tip dispenser. After smoothing, wipe away residue with a damp sponge. Follow manufacturer instructions for drying times, and avoid walking on the area until the repair is fully set.

3. Floor Cupping

Vinyl plank flooring can sometimes develop a raised or cupped appearance. This issue often stems from environmental factors or moisture damage.

Climate Control: Fluctuations in humidity and temperature are common culprits. Excessive heat may cause planks to expand and lift at the edges, while high moisture can result in warping and curling. Using a humidifier or installing curtains to regulate conditions can help restore the floor over time. Maintaining around 50% humidity and a steady temperature of 70°F is optimal for preventing cupping and other related issues.

Moisture: Cupping may also indicate moisture damage, particularly in areas like kitchens, bathrooms, or laundry rooms. In such cases, professional evaluation is recommended to determine the extent of the damage and whether plank replacement is necessary.

Prompt detection and repairs are essential to avoiding further complications such as mold growth and subfloor deterioration.

4. Gaps Around Pipes and Doorways

During installation, gaps around pipes and doorways should be addressed using expansion sleeves or specialized moldings. However, if these gaps appear after installation, it might indicate movement or settling of the subfloor. In such cases, minor gaps (up to ¼ inch) can be addressed using vinyl flooring sealant (similar to the method used for side plank separation)

For larger gaps, consulting a professional flooring installer is recommended to assess the cause of the movement and determine the best course of action for repair.

5. Scratches and Scuffs

Vinyl plank flooring is known for its scratch resistance, yet minor scratches and scuffs can still develop over time. To restore its appearance, start by cleaning the affected area with a mild soap and water solution, ensuring it is thoroughly dried with a soft cloth. For light surface scratches or scuffs, gently buff with a small amount of furniture polish applied to a soft cloth, then remove any excess with a dry cloth. Slightly deeper scratches exposing the underlayer can be treated with a color-matched furniture repair marker, applied in thin layers along the grain for a natural finish. For stubborn scuff marks, lightly use a dampened melamine sponge in circular motions, exercising caution to avoid damaging the surface. Always limit the use of melamine sponges to prevent dulling the finish. For severe damage beyond DIY solutions, professional repair may be necessary.

FAQS – How to Repair Vinyl Plank Flooring

1. How to repair a tear in vinyl flooring if the damage is small?

Vinyl flooring repairs depend on the type and severity of the damage. Small tears (under 1 inch) can be fixed by gluing the torn piece back down and sealing it with a vinyl seam sealer. Larger tears or if you have spare flooring, you can replace the entire plank or cut a patch to fit the damaged area. Remember to follow the drying times on the vinyl floor adhesive.

2. How to repair scratched vinyl flooring if the damage is minor?

For minor scratches, simply clean the area and consider buffing with furniture polish in an inconspicuous spot first. Deeper scratches can be addressed using a vinyl floor scratch repair kit.

3. How to repair luxury vinyl flooring?

Luxury vinyl flooring (LVT/LVP) repairs are similar, but consider the locking mechanism – replacing a whole plank might be easier than patching a tear. Additionally, check the warranty for specific repair methods to avoid voiding it. If the damage is extensive or you’re unsure about the process, consult a flooring professional for best results.

The Final Word

That’s all there is to know on how to repair vinyl plank flooring. With these tips, you can keep your vinyl floor looking beautiful and functional for many years. However, for extensive damage or situations beyond your comfort level, consulting a professional flooring installer like The ElmWood Flooring is always a wise option.