How to Repair Scratches, Dents, and Damage on LVP Flooring

Luxury vinyl plank flooring is known for its durability, easy maintenance, and realistic wood-like appearance. It holds up well in busy homes, but that doesn’t mean it’s completely immune to damage. Over time, dents and surface scratches can show up from things like heavy furniture, dropped objects, or repeated foot traffic.

These small imperfections might not affect the structure of your floor, but they can take away from its clean, finished look. The good news is that many types of damage, including dents in luxury vinyl, can be repaired without replacing the entire plank.

Knowing how to repair dents and damage on LVP flooring can make a big difference in how long your floor stays looking new. Once you understand what causes this type of wear and how to fix it, it becomes much easier to maintain the appearance and performance of your vinyl plank floor for years to co

What Causes Dents and Scratches in Vinyl Plank Flooring

Luxury vinyl plank flooring is designed to handle everyday use, but it’s not invincible. Dents and scratches can still happen, especially in high-traffic areas or places where furniture and heavy objects are frequently moved around.

One of the most common causes of dents in vinyl flooring is concentrated weight. When a heavy object like a couch or refrigerator presses into a small surface area, it can leave a visible dent in the plank. High heels and sharp furniture legs can also create pressure points that push into the floor over time.

Scratches are often caused by grit or debris caught under shoes or dragged across the surface. Moving furniture without pads, pulling appliances, or even playful pets can lead to visible scratches on vinyl planks. These marks may be shallow, but they can still affect the overall appearance of your floor.

Improper installation can also play a role. If the subfloor is uneven or not properly prepped, it may not support the plank evenly. This can increase the chances of pressure damage or cause the planks to shift, creating visible wear across the floor.

Even though vinyl flooring is tough and built to withstand foot traffic, it’s still important to understand these common issues. Knowing what causes dents and scratches is the first step toward fixing the damage and preventing it from happening again.

How to Fix Scratches and Surface Scuffs on Vinyl Plank Flooring

Not all scratches on vinyl flooring are the same. Some marks are light and only affect the surface, while others cut deeper into the plank. Most of the time, these scratches can be repaired without replacing any part of the floor.

Before you start, clean the scratched area thoroughly. Use a vinyl-safe floor cleaner and a soft cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Once the surface is clean and dry, follow these steps based on the severity of the scratch:

For light surface scratches:

• Use a color-matched touch-up marker or wax repair stick designed for vinyl plank flooring.
• Apply the marker or wax directly into the scratch.
• Buff gently with a soft cloth to blend it into the surrounding surface.

For deeper scratches or scuffs:

• Use a vinyl floor repair kit. These typically include filler material, a small applicator or putty knife, and a finish coat.
• Fill the damaged area with the compound.
• Level the surface carefully using the putty knife.
• Allow it to dry completely before applying the finishing layer to match the gloss of your vinyl plank floor.

Avoid using abrasive pads, harsh cleaners, or anything that could damage the wear layer. That can make the scratched area worse and more noticeable across the floor.

How to Fix Dents and Gouges in Vinyl Plank Flooring

Dents in vinyl plank flooring often happen when a heavy object applies pressure over time. This can include furniture legs, appliances, or even high heels pressing into a small surface area. Gouges are typically caused by sharp impacts, like dropping something heavy or dragging a rough item across the floor. Both can be repaired, but the method depends on how deep the damage goes.

For minor dents:

• Use gentle heat to soften the vinyl. A hair dryer or heat gun on low can make the vinyl more pliable.
• Apply light pressure to reshape the plank. Use a clean cloth or the back of a spoon to press down and help the vinyl return to its original shape.
• Let the area cool and check if the dent is still visible. Small dents can often lift back up and become less noticeable after this process.

For deeper dents or gouges:

• Clean the area first. Remove any dirt or loose debris with a soft cloth and vinyl-safe cleaner.
• Apply vinyl filler compound. Most vinyl floor repair kits include a putty that fills the damaged spot.
• Level the surface. Use a putty knife to spread the filler evenly across the gouge or dent.
• Let it cure. After drying, apply the included finish coat to match the shine of your vinyl flooring.

When the damage affects the plank core:

• If the dent has pierced through the top layers or caused structural issues, it may be time to replace the plank.
• For click-lock flooring, lift from the nearest wall and remove the damaged plank.
• For glue-down installations, heat the adhesive to loosen the bond, then remove the damaged vinyl tile or plank and install a new one in its place.

Fixing dents in luxury vinyl plank flooring doesn’t have to mean a full floor replacement. With the right tools and materials, most damage can be repaired cleanly and without a trace.

Preventing Dents in Vinyl Flooring

Even though vinyl flooring is made to withstand everyday use, a few smart habits can go a long way in protecting it from future damage. Preventing dents is often easier than repairing them, especially in high-traffic areas or rooms with heavy furniture.

Here are some easy ways to keep your vinyl plank floor in great shape:

Use Furniture Pads

Add felt pads to the bottom of chairs, tables, and other heavy items. This helps distribute weight more evenly across the floor and prevents pressure dents.

Add Area Rugs or Floor Protectors

Placing rugs in high-traffic zones or under large furniture adds a layer of protection between the floor and any direct impact.

Avoid Dragging Furniture

Always lift furniture when moving it, or use sliders designed for vinyl flooring. Dragging heavy objects can cause gouges and dents.

Keep the Floor Clean

Dirt and grit can act like sandpaper underfoot. Regular sweeping and a gentle cleaning way help protect the surface from wear and scratches.

Watch the Weight Load

Be mindful of appliances or furniture that stay in one place for years. If possible, reposition them slightly over time or use wide, flat feet that reduce pressure on a single spot.

LVP Repair Tips

When it comes to fixing dents and scratches in vinyl flooring, there are a few tried-and-true tricks that professionals and homeowners swear by. These tips can help you avoid common mistakes and get better results from your repair efforts.

• Use a heat gun with caution. For minor dents, gently heat the area with a hair dryer or heat gun on low. Vinyl becomes more flexible with heat, which allows it to return to its original shape with light pressure. Never overheat the flooring material, and always keep the heat moving to avoid damage.
• Match your repair kit to your floor. Color-matched fillers or vinyl repair kits work best when they blend in with the surrounding plank. Some kits include mixing options to match patterns found in wood-look vinyl planks or luxury vinyl tile.
• Test in an inconspicuous area first. Before applying filler or polish to the scratched area, test the product somewhere hidden, like behind your baseboard. This helps you confirm the color match and sheen before repairing a visible section.
• Have the right tools and materials ready. A vinyl floor repair kit, soft cloths, a plastic putty knife, and a mild cleaner are basic essentials. Avoid using anything too abrasive or sharp, which could create new scratches or worsen the repaired area.
• Don’t rush the cure time. Letting filler compounds or finish coats dry completely is key to making the repaired area blend in. Walking on it too soon or skipping steps can undo your work.

Conclusion

Dents, scratches, and surface damage can take away from the look of your vinyl flooring, but that doesn’t mean you need to replace it. In most cases, you can restore your vinyl plank floor using simple tools, the right techniques, and a little bit of patience.

Knowing how to repair dents and damage on LVP flooring helps you avoid unnecessary flooring repairs and keeps your home looking polished. From light scuffs to deeper gouges, the solutions are often easier than expected. With protective habits and a quick response to damage, your vinyl planks can continue to perform and look great for years to come.

For more expert tips, tools, and high-quality flooring options, visit Carpet Exchange.
You’ll find everything you need to protect and enhance the floors in your home.