Vinyl flooring is a popular choice for both residential and commercial spaces due to its durability, affordability, and wide range of design options. From traditional sheet vinyl to luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and rigid core options like SPC or WPC, it’s a versatile material that suits nearly any room.
However, even the most resilient flooring can suffer wear and tear over time. Scratches, dents, tears, or water damage are common issues that can affect the look and function of vinyl flooring. Fortunately, many of these problems can be fixed without needing a full replacement.
This article explores repairing luxury vinyl flooring. We’ll start with DIY techniques suitable for minor damage, then cover professional repair methods for more serious or complicated issues. Whether you’re a hands-on homeowner or looking to hire a pro, understanding your options is the first step toward restoring your floor’s appearance and performance.
Fixing Minor Scratches
Vinyl Repair Kit
Clean the scratched area, then apply the color-matched compound from the repair kit using a putty knife. Smooth it evenly and let it dry.
Benefits: Provides a near-invisible fix if color-matched well.
Drawbacks: Results vary depending on color match and application skill.
WD-40 or Mineral Oil
Apply a small amount of WD-40 or mineral oil to the scratch. Buff with a soft cloth in circular motions until the mark fades.
Benefits: Fast and easy to apply; restores shine.
Drawbacks: Temporary fix; may leave the floor slippery if not fully cleaned.
Baking Soda Paste
Mix baking soda and water to form a paste. Rub it gently into the scratch with a soft cloth, then wipe clean.
Benefits: Non-damaging, inexpensive, and great for superficial marks.
Drawbacks: Ineffective on deeper scratches; may dull glossy finishes slightly.
Floor Polish or Acrylic Finish
Thoroughly clean the area, then apply a thin layer of polish or acrylic finish using a microfiber cloth. Let it dry completely.
Benefits: Adds a protective layer and reduces scratch visibility.
Drawbacks: Needs reapplication over time; not suitable for matte-finish floors.
Fixing Discoloration or Stains
Commercial Vinyl Cleaner or Stain Remover
Use a product specifically formulated for vinyl flooring. Apply as directed, usually by spraying and wiping clean. Test in an inconspicuous area first.
Benefits: Designed to target common vinyl stains without harming the surface.
Drawbacks: Costlier than homemade solutions; results depend on brand quality and stain type.
Baking Soda and Water Paste
Mix equal parts baking soda and water to form a paste. Apply it to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then rub gently with a soft cloth and rinse clean.
Benefits: Non-abrasive and safe for most vinyl finishes.
Drawbacks: May take several applications for tougher stains; ineffective for chemical discoloration.
Diluted Bleach for Sheet Vinyl (Use with Caution)
Mix one part bleach with ten parts water. Dab onto the stained area using a cloth, let it sit briefly, then rinse thoroughly.
Benefits: Useful for mold, mildew, or organic stains.
Drawbacks: Can discolor the vinyl further or damage the finish if misused; not safe for all types.
Isopropyl Alcohol Spot Cleaning
Dampen a soft cloth with isopropyl alcohol and gently rub the discolored area. Rinse with water and dry.
Benefits: Effective for ink, dye, and some surface stains.
Drawbacks: May not remove older or deeply embedded stains; can dry out vinyl if overused.
Patching And Filling Techniques
Patching Sheet Vinyl with a Replacement Piece
Cut a clean square around the damaged area using a straightedge and utility knife. Use the cut-out piece as a template to trace and cut an exact match from a leftover vinyl scrap. Apply adhesive to the subfloor, place the patch, press firmly, and roll with a seam roller. Seal edges with a vinyl seam sealer.
Benefits: Provides a seamless-looking fix if the pattern and color match well. Durable and long-lasting when done carefully.
Drawbacks: Requires extra material and precision cutting. Pattern alignment can be difficult, and poorly cut edges may remain visible.
Filling Chips and Gouges in Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) or Plank
Clean the damaged area thoroughly. Fill the gouge or chip with vinyl floor putty or wood filler. Smooth with a putty knife and let it dry completely. Lightly sand flush, then use a color-match pen or stain to blend with surrounding flooring.
Benefits: Effective for small dents or corner damage; inexpensive and requires basic tools. Ideal for static areas where planks can’t be replaced.
Drawbacks: Not invisible—may show slightly under certain lighting. Color-matching takes effort and artistic care to look natural.
Seam Repair for Curling or Peeling Edges
Lift the curled or loose edge. Clean underneath and apply vinyl flooring adhesive. Press it down, then roll the area flat with a seam roller. Use vinyl seam sealer to bond and waterproof the edge.
Benefits: Quick and effective for edge damage or minor lifting. Extends the life of the flooring without removing large sections.
Drawbacks: Only works for small, accessible areas. Repeated lifting could indicate subfloor or adhesive failure, which needs more extensive repair.
Tile or Plank Replacement
Begin by gently heating the damaged tile or plank with a hair dryer or heat gun to loosen the adhesive (for glue-down types) or soften the locking edges (for click-lock systems). Carefully pry it up using a putty knife. For glue-down floors, scrape away old adhesive before setting the new tile in place with fresh glue. For floating floors, disassemble nearby planks as needed to insert a replacement, then reassemble.
Upsides: Offers a clean, permanent fix without redoing the entire floor. Restores original appearance and durability, especially when spare tiles are on hand.
Downsides: Matching color or pattern may be difficult if original stock is unavailable. Floating floors may require lifting multiple planks, which can be tedious.
When to Hire A Pro:
If the damage to your vinyl flooring is widespread, structural, or moisture-related, DIY fixes may not be enough. Hiring a professional ensures the problem is properly assessed and repaired, preserving the floor’s appearance and longevity—especially when specialized tools or techniques are required.
Hire a pro when:
The damage covers a large area or multiple rooms
Water has seeped under the floor or into the subfloor
Vinyl is bubbling, warping, or lifting in multiple places
You have no matching replacement tiles or planks
The pattern is complex and difficult to align
Seam repairs or reinstallation need expert-level precision
The Techniques That Professionals Can Use:
The Costs Are Only Averages For The Service and Do Not Represent Our Prices
Seam Welding for Sheet Vinyl
Professionals use specialized heat welding tools to fuse the edges of damaged vinyl sheets, ensuring a seamless, watertight bond that prevents moisture penetration. This technique is ideal for high-traffic areas, kitchens, and bathrooms.
Upsides: Highly durable, waterproof, and blends well with the existing floor. Creates a long-lasting, professional finish.
Downsides: Requires specialized equipment and expertise. Not a DIY-friendly task, as improper technique can lead to visible seams or further damage.
Cost: $150–$400 per seam (labor and materials)
Factors: Length of seam, condition of flooring, accessibility
Note: Often used in commercial spaces or high-moisture areas like bathrooms.
Complete Vinyl Tile or Plank Replacement
A professional can replace damaged vinyl tiles or planks by precisely removing them without disturbing surrounding flooring. This is ideal for floors with a click-lock system or glue-down vinyl.
Upsides: Ensures a perfect match and maintains the floor’s integrity. The process is quick and non-disruptive, and the replacement tile blends seamlessly with the existing layout.
Downsides: Matching discontinued patterns or colors can be challenging. Replacement tiles may need to be sourced, which could add to the cost.
Cost: $75–$200 per plank/tile (including labor)
Factors: Type of vinyl (LVT, LVP, rigid core), location, difficulty of removal
Note: Prices drop for larger jobs involving multiple tiles at once.
Subfloor Repair and Preparation
If water damage, mold, or structural issues are causing problems with your vinyl flooring, a professional can repair or replace the subfloor. This step ensures a stable and secure base for new flooring.
Upsides: Addresses the root cause of the problem, preventing future damage. Ensures the floor is level, preventing new issues.
Downsides: Can be costly and time-consuming, especially if significant subfloor replacement is necessary. It may require additional materials and labor.
Cost: $3–$8 per sq. ft. for subfloor patching
Full replacement: $500–$1,500+ depending on extent of damage
Factors: Material (plywood, concrete), moisture damage, mold removal
Note: Often necessary before new vinyl installation.
Color Matching and Surface Refinishing
Professionals can use custom-color repair kits or refinishing techniques to restore discoloration, fading, or surface damage. This is often done by blending the damaged areas into the surrounding flooring to create a uniform look.
Upsides: A fast and effective solution for restoring appearance without needing a complete floor replacement. Provides a professional finish that’s hard to replicate with DIY methods.
Downsides: May not be effective on very deep scratches or extensive discoloration. Color matching can be imperfect, especially on older or heavily worn floors.
Cost: $100–$300 per session
Factors: Size of affected area, complexity of the color/pattern, materials used
Note: May involve custom pigment blends or professional-grade coatings.
Full Floor Replacement
If repairs are no longer viable, a professional can remove the entire floor and install a new one. This involves removing old vinyl, cleaning the subfloor, and installing new material.
Upsides: Restores the entire room with a fresh look and extended lifespan. Offers a chance to upgrade to a different type of vinyl or design.
Downsides: Significantly more expensive and time-consuming than smaller repair jobs. You may need to temporarily relocate during the installation process.
Material: $2–$7 per sq. ft. for vinyl (standard to rigid core)
Installation: $2–$5 per sq. ft.
Total: $4–$12 per sq. ft.
Note: Additional charges may apply for old floor removal and subfloor repair.
