Flooring

TL;DR: Vinyl flooring is a durable, stylish option, but even tough surfaces can suffer from scratches over time. Whether it’s shallow scuffs or deeper marks, this guide walks you through the best DIY solutions—like using warm soapy water, baking soda paste, or commercial repair kits—to restore your floor’s appearance. For more severe damage, professional advice may be needed. Don’t forget to check your flooring warranty before starting any repairs. And remember, prevention is key!

Need help selecting new vinyl flooring or tools for the job? Contact Builders Surplus or call us at 866-739-1636 for expert advice.

Say goodbye to unsightly scuffs with these professional tips detailing how to get scratches out of vinyl flooring.

Vinyl flooring offers durability, style, and easy maintenance, making it a popular choice for homes and commercial spaces. However, despite its resilient nature, vinyl flooring is not impervious to scratches. If you’re wondering how to get scratches out of vinyl flooring, this article serves as your comprehensive guide. 

If your vinyl flooring needs an upgrade, the experts at Builders Surplus are happy to help. Why not you do it yourself and save? Stop in today, and let the experts help you find the tools to restore the charm to your flooring or replace it!

Call us at (866) 739-1636, or visit your nearby Builder Surplus store in Rhode Island, Connecticut, or Massachusetts!

How to get scratches out of vinyl flooring

Whether caused by moving furniture, playful pets, or everyday foot traffic, these marks can detract from the overall aesthetic of your space. If you’re wondering how to get scratches out of vinyl flooring, we’re here to equip you with the tools to restore your vinyl floors to their original splendor. 

Review the manufacturer’s warranty

Before embarking on a restoration project, it’s essential to check the manufacturer’s warranty. You’ll want to ensure that DIY fixes don’t negate the warranty before you get started. 

Prioritize prevention

Preventing scratches is the best course of action when it comes to maintaining your vinyl flooring’s longevity. Placing felt pads under furniture, using area rugs or mats in high-traffic areas, and avoiding dragging heavy objects across the floor can all help minimize the risk of scratches and keep your vinyl flooring looking its best for years to come. 

Assess the damage

Before diving into the remedies, it’s important to determine the depth and severity of the scratches. Shallow surface scratches are generally easier to address than deeper gouges. 

Remove minor scratches

Consider starting with a simple warm water and mild soap solution for minor scratches. Mix a few drops of gentle dish soap with warm water and dampen a soft cloth or sponge. Gently rub the scratched area using a circular motion, being careful not to apply excessive pressure. Rinse the area with clean water and dry it thoroughly.

Remove medium-depth scratches

A baking soda paste can be a helpful remedy for slightly deeper scratches. Mix baking soda with water to create a paste until it forms a thick consistency. Apply the paste to the scratched area and gently rub it with a soft cloth. Let the paste sit for a few minutes before wiping it away and rinsing the floor with clean water.

For more stubborn scratches, consider using a commercial vinyl scratch repair kit. These kits often contain specialized solutions and tools to fill and camouflage scratches. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely, as they vary from product to product. Remember to test any solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the vinyl flooring before applying it to a more noticeable scratch.

Remove extensive scratches

In cases where scratches are deep and extensive, it’s best to consult a professional flooring specialist. They can assess the severity of the damage and provide expert advice on whether repair, patching, or replacement is the best course of action. If you cannot repair the scratches, the Builders Surplus team will help you find the best solution for replacement flooring.

Builders Surplus supplies the best

At Builders Surplus, our commitment extends beyond immediate fixes. We are your partners in education and flooring. Say goodbye to those imperfections and hello to a flawless floor with Builders Surplus, your ultimate destination for expert scratch repair advice and solutions! 

Visit one of our five locations today, where our experts will help you learn more about your options!

FAQs: Getting Scratches Out of Vinyl Flooring

Q: Can scratches on vinyl flooring really be removed at home?
A: Yes! Minor and medium scratches can often be fixed using household solutions like soapy water, baking soda paste, or a vinyl scratch repair kit.

Q: What should I do first before trying to fix scratches?
A: Always check the manufacturer’s warranty to avoid voiding it with DIY fixes.

Q: What’s the easiest way to fix light surface scratches?
A: Gently clean the area with a warm water and mild soap solution using a soft cloth in a circular motion.

Q: How do I handle deeper scratches?
A: Try using a baking soda paste or a vinyl repair kit. For deep or extensive damage, consult a professional.

Q: Are there ways to prevent vinyl floor scratches in the first place?
A: Absolutely. Use felt pads on furniture legs, avoid dragging heavy items, and place rugs in high-traffic areas.

Q: When should I consider replacing vinyl flooring?
A: If scratches are too deep to repair or are widespread, it may be time to explore replacement options.

Photo by Gianmaria Saccenti on Unsplash