How To Repair Scratched Vinyl Plank Flooring

How deep/big is the scratch? --the word that is tricky here is the word easy....You can take out the plank and replace-or you can grind up some of another spare piece and fill to glue into it, or you can get a color match type of magic marker sold at home center and cover it--it will have a sealer in it that will keep dirt from grinding in as well.

Hi Lorna,

I found an article that suggests using lighter fluid on a soft cloth to remove the scratches. I thought " Huh? What the heck? Lighter fluid? That sound crazy." Further down in the article, the creator suggests that baby oil or spray lubricant will work as well. Click on the article below to see if this will help you. Wishing you the best.

I have scuff marks on my luxury vinyl flooring. How to remove?

Erasers: For smaller scuff marks, try using a regular pencil eraser. Rub the spot firmly until the scuff mark disappears. Be sure to sweep up any remaining eraser shaving as they can cause their own stains if left unattended. Some companies now make special eraser-type products for this purpose. One such product that works well on scuff marks is the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, generally available wherever cleaning products are sold. However, a Magic Eraser can remove the finish from some types of floors, so be sure to test it in a small hidden area first.
Tennis Shoe: For larger scuff marks, try using the rubber sole of a tennis shoe. Press your hand into the shoe, and rub the spot firmly with the heel. If this is uncomfortable, or you feel you are not exerting enough pressure, place your foot inside the shoe and rub again with a circular, grinding motion.
Tennis Ball: For larger areas of scuff marks, take a plain tennis ball, carefully cut a small "X" (about ¼") into the top. To avoid injury, DO NOT hold the ball in your hand as you cut it, but rather place it on a firm surface or vise grip. Insert the top of a broom handle into the "X" and, using the tennis ball end of the broom, rub the scuff marks with the tennis ball.
Baking Soda Paste: This is one of the tricks if normal techniques don't seem to work. Mix about 2 tablespoons of baking soda with warm water to make a smooth paste (not runny). Using a soft cloth, scrub with the paste to remove the scuff mark. Wipe the scuff mark. Wipe the area with a clean damp cloth and wipe dry.
Lighter Fluid: The second trick is to dampen a soft cloth with lighter fluid and rub the spot with the cloth. Wipe the area with a clean damp cloth and dry. Always exercise caution when using lighter fluid. It is flammable and toxic, and should not come in contact with skin or eyes.
Toothpaste: The third trick is to use a clean cloth, rub a small amount of toothpaste on the scuff mark, using firm, circular motions. Wipe areas with a clean, damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
WD-40: The fourth trick is to use a little WD-40 onto a soft cloth or paper towel and rub the scuff mark gently. Wipe area with a clean, damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
Over-The-Counter: There are products on the market specifically designed for removing scuff marks and other tough stains, which are safe to use on most types of flooring (i.e.Goo Gone). ALWAYS check the label to ensure that the product is safe for the type of flooring you have. Make sure you follow all manufacturer directions.

I just used the WD-40 tip on my Lifeproof vinyl flooring, and WOW!! Worked great.

Hello Kelly. Did you use the WD-40 technique to get up scuff marks or to cover up/repair scratches? I'm requesting clarity because this thread mentions both issues and I'd like to know if it works for the scratches. I deliver and install appliances and at times it it is impossible not to scratch the flooring when sliding the appliance in place. I appreciate your help. ~ Shelby Bunton

Bruce on Mar 07, 2020

Problem with oil is it is very short term. As soon as you mop several times you remove it. I just used several products and the one that worked best for me was ArmorAll. The stuff you use on your car dash. First I worked the scratch smooth with a soft bristled brass brush from Home Depot. Then took a soft cloth and wiped on the ArmorAll. It took several coats but it blended the scratch in extremely well and should last longer than the oil products. We will see!!

How to Fix Scratches on Luxury Vinyl Floors

Even with careful use of the laminate, damage to the surface is bound to occur over time. This does not affect the performance of the coating, but degrades the appearance. Using a laminate repair and restoration kit or other available tools, you can restore the original appearance of the flooring. If this does not work, you will have to mount new boards. In this case, it is important to observe the correct sequence of work.

We've just popped the scratched pieces out and replaced them with new ones when the damage was really bad.

Repair kits are available. But I would check with the manufacturer for their recommendation.

I use a tennis ball. Cut an X in and place it over the handle end of a broom. Then turn the broom over so the tennis ball is on the scuff mark and rub it with the tennis ball.

Annie on Jun 20, 2021

If it's scratches, rather than scuffs you are trying to fix, getting in touch with the company who made the flooring would be best. They could recommend what works best with their product.

If the scratch is super bad, hopefully you have some leftover pieces and can replace the one. Otherwise you might try reaching out to the manufacturer as they know the product best.