The Ultimate Guide to Luxury Vinyl Floor Care
TL;DR: The US vinyl flooring market is booming, with luxury vinyl being a top choice for its durability, style, and cost. To keep luxury vinyl floors pristine, regularly sweep or vacuum and use pH-neutral or vinegar-water solutions for cleaning. Protect floors with mats, a no-shoes policy, and furniture pads. For minor damage, use vinyl repair kits or baking soda paste; for deep scratches or warping, consult professionals. Maintain optimal humidity and conduct regular inspections for long-term care. For expert maintenance, contact Excel Pro Carpet Cleaning.
With the market size of vinyl flooring in the US expected to reach 15.9 billion dollars in 2025, it’s clear that more and more people are investing in this flooring option. Luxury vinyl flooring has become a popular choice in particular, thanks to its lifespan, visual value, and low costs.
However, although it’s a typically durable, versatile, and stylish floor, it requires proper care to maintain its beauty and longevity. Whether you’re a new owner or looking to refresh your knowledge, the ultimate guide to luxury vinyl floor care will provide you with every tip you need to keep your floors looking pristine.
Understanding Luxury Vinyl Flooring
Luxury vinyl flooring has emerged as a favorite among homeowners and interior designers due to its combination of style, durability, and cost-effectiveness. It’s important to understand its different types to maximize the potential of this adaptable flooring option.
Plank (LVP)
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) comes in various sizes and finishes, offering a realistic wood grain look. It is easy to install with a click-lock mechanism, water-resistant, and suitable for high-traffic areas.
Tile (LVT)
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) mirrors the look of ceramic or stone flooring. It’s available in many sizes, patterns, and colors. This type of floor is durable, water-resistant, and can be grouted to enhance the realistic look of traditional tile.
Sheet Vinyl
Sheet vinyl is sold in large rolls, ideal for kitchens and bathrooms where the humidity is high compared to other environments. It is simple to clean, exceptionally water-resistant, and available in many designs and textures.
Daily Cleaning Routine
Proper daily care helps to prevent scratches, maintain shine, and extend the durability of your floors. Here’s how you can effectively keep your luxury vinyl floors clean daily.
Sweeping and Vacuuming
Sweep or vacuum your luxury vinyl floors daily to remove contaminants that can cause scratches and wear over time. Daily cleaning ensures that any loose particles are promptly removed, maintaining the floor’s pristine appearance.
Take a soft-bristle broom and begin sweeping in one corner of the room, working towards the exit, ensuring you cover all areas, including corners and under furniture. If vacuuming is still your choice, use a vacuum cleaner with a specialized soft brush.
Recommended Cleaning Tools and Products
A microfiber mop is ideal for daily cleaning as it captures everything without scratching the surface. When using a broom, opt for one with soft bristles to prevent scratching the floor’s surface.
Use pH-neutral cleaners that are gentle on the flooring material and effective at removing dirt without leaving a residue. You can also mix white vinegar and warm water for a natural cleaning solution.
Protecting Your Luxury Vinyl Floors
Place mats at all entry points as they will catch dirt, sand, and other particles before they can be tracked onto your luxury vinyl floors. You can also encourage a no-shoes policy inside your home and provide a designated area for shoes at the entrance to your home.
If you have pets, groom them as often as you can to minimize the shedding and the amount of dirt they bring inside. Trim their nails so they don’t make scratches on the floor. Since furniture can also cause scratches, place anti-scratch pads or furniture protectors on the legs of your chairs and tables.
Implementing Repairs
Knowing how to repair your luxury vinyl flooring can help maintain its beauty and extend its lifespan, whether it’s minor scratches or more significant damage. Here’s how to tackle various repair tasks.
Minor Scratches
Start by cleaning the affected area with a mild pH-neutral cleaner to remove any dirt or debris that could exacerbate the scratch. Purchase a vinyl repair kit that matches the color of your floor. These kits typically include a wax pencil or a liquid repair solution.
For very minimal scratches, you can also create a paste by mixing baking soda and water. Gently rub the paste into the scratch using a soft cloth, then buff away any excess.
Scuffs
Use a clean, white pencil eraser to gently rub away scuffs. This method is particularly recommended for surface-level marks. For tougher scuffs, create a paste with baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the scuff and gently rub it with a soft cloth until the mark is removed.
Deep Scratches and Gouges
If you notice deep scratches or gouges that penetrate the wear layer of the vinyl, it’s time to consult a professional. These types of damages typically necessitate specialized tools and materials for proper repair. A flooring professional can fill deep scratches and gouges with a matching compound, ensuring the repair blends well.
Lifting or Warping
If sections of your luxury vinyl flooring are lifting or warping, it could indicate underlying issues such as moisture damage. This is beyond a simple DIY fix and requires professional evaluation.
Professionals can detect and identify the issue causing lifting or warping, replace the affected sections of the flooring, and advise on how to avoid future occurrences.
Large or Widespread Damage
Extensive damage, such as large areas of wear or multiple deep scratches, can compromise the floor’s appearance and integrity. In such cases, a professional may recommend refinishing the entire floor or replacing damaged planks or tiles to restore the floor’s uniform appearance.
Polishing and Refinishing Options
Before polishing, ensure the floor is thoroughly cleaned. Choose a polish designed for luxury vinyl floors. Apply a thin polish layer using a microfiber mop and allow it to dry completely on the floor. This can be done every 3-6 months to maintain a shiny, new-looking floor.
Refinishing may be necessary if the floor has lost its shine and polish no longer restores its luster. This more intensive process involves removing the old coat and adding a new one. It’s recommended that professionals be hired since they will use the appropriate products and techniques to achieve a high-quality finish.
Long-Term Care Tips
Implementing long-term care strategies is essential for keeping your floors in top shape for years to come. Here are some key tips for maintaining your luxury vinyl floors over the long haul.
Maintaining Optimal Humidity Levels
Seek to uphold indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% and invest in a hygrometer to monitor them. Use a humidifier during dry periods and a dehumidifier in humid seasons to protect your floors.
Visual Inspections
Regularly inspect your luxury vinyl flooring and look for scratches, dents, scuffs, or any changes in the flooring’s appearance. Pay special attention to high-traffic areas such as entries, hallways, and living spaces.
Immediate Repairs
Address any minor damages as soon as they are detected. Fixing small issues like scratches or scuffs promptly can prevent them from getting worse. Use DIY methods for minor repairs and call a professional for bigger and more critical damage.
Preserving the Beauty of Your Luxury Vinyl Floors
Follow these tips and keep your floors looking pristine to extend their lifespan. Regular cleaning, prompt repairs, and optimal humidity levels are key to ensuring your floors’ beauty and durability.
For professional care, contact Excel Pro Carpet Cleaning. Our expert services, from deep cleaning to specialized maintenance, will keep your luxury vinyl flooring in top condition.