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How to Care for Vinyl Plank Flooring?

Many homeowners are embracing vinyl plank floors. It is one of the attractive, versatile, and long-lasting flooring options that are available in the market today. But you probably need to know how to care for vinyl plank flooring?

Vinyl plank floors have an ample variety ranging from stone, marble, decorative tiles, concrete, and parquet. Here we’re going to introduce you to the many ways you can take care of your vinyl plank flooring and avoid early replacement.

 

How to Care for Vinyl Plank Flooring?

how to care for vinyl plank flooring

Just like any other type of flooring, vinyl plank floors require occasional cleaning. Here you will learn how to clean and maintain your vinyl floors and keep them from scratches and dents.

  • Keep the Floor Dirt Free

Firstly, you need to prevent the floors from getting dirty. That can be done by using a doormat. It will keep excess dirt as well as chemicals away from the plank floor.

The substances that stick on your shoes can damage your vinyl plank floors, and the tracked-in grime can mean that you spend a longer time sweeping. Using a doormat is, therefore, essential to maintain the vinyl floors.

  • Sweep the Floor Regularly

Also, if you want to keep a floor in good shape, you must clean it often. For your vinyl plank floors, sweep it frequently to remove the dirt before it grounds in. A soft broom is recommended for this task.

Moreover, shampoo is recommended for use in case there is hairspray build upon the floor. It works great with warm water and a mop.

  • Invest in Low Impact Cleaning

You are also advised to make use of low-impact cleaning techniques. Heavy-duty cleaners are highly frowned upon. Instead, you can use the mild methods available such as vacuum cleaning it or sweeping.

Spills should be wiped off immediately. Use a mop with warm water to clean stubborn dirt. If that does not work effectively, you can use specific soap that is designed for flooring.

  • Use the Appropriate Cleansers

On top of that, you must use the right cleanser. That should be designed for non-wax floors, and you should follow all the directions on the container. For the older vinyl plank floor, use a detergent and warm water.

  • Refrain From Cleaning With Excess Water

It is noteworthy that water is not the best cleaner for vinyl floors. If you use an overly wet mop, the water will get into cracks, edges, and seams. That will damage the glue bond, which holds the vinyl and results in the curling of corners or becoming loose.

  • Keep the Floor Dry Always

Additionally, after you have used soap, you need to rinse the floor thoroughly. Soap scum may leave a film that collects dirt. Damp mopping using warm water is highly recommended.

Preserve the sheen of your vinyl plank floor by avoiding wax products. If it loses its shine, however, you can restore it using a sealant or polish designed for the no-wax flooring.

  • Protect Your Floor Using Floor Protectors

Some heavy-weight items, such as refrigerators and tables occupying permanent places, may dent the vinyl plank floors. And to prevent this, you are advised to use floor protectors when you fit your furniture.

These can be found in any home improvement center or hardware store. Also, it would help if you forewent rolling casters. These also cause damage to your floor surface. You can use chairs with felt tips.

  • Avoid Dragging or Pushing Heavy Items On Your Floor

You are advised not to push or drag heavy items across the floor—this results in scuff and scratches on the vinyl. You can lift the things, and if this is not possible, use plywood sheeting along the route to be taken. That will keep your vinyl plank floor safe.

 

Do’s and Don’ts for Caring Vinyl Floors

protect vinyl floors

Vinyl plank floors aren’t your ordinary floors. You need to make sure you give them comprehensive care for them to stay clean and last long. For that reason, here are some of the dos and don’ts for vinyl floors:

Do’s

  • Use a doormat to keep excess dirt and chemicals away from your floors.

While doing the cleaning, sweep, and vacuum first to remove sand, dust, and other particles. Repeat these frequently even if you’re not moping.

  • Give proper UV-ray protection

Protect the floors from direct sun as the exposure may reduce the span of the vinyl and make them lose their classy, elegant touch.

  • Use floor protectors

While carrying or placing any heavy items on your vinyl floor, you need to use protectors to ensure you don’t leave a mark.

  • Use the right cleaner

You do all need to preserve the sheen of the vinyl floors and, once washed, rinse thoroughly to remove all the soap. So, use the right cleanser alongside warm water when cleaning the vinyl flooring.

  • Always keep the floors dry

Once you mop, ensure it’s dry before you start stepping on it. What’s more, keep spills away from your precious vinyl floors. (You can try steam mop for vinyl floors.)

 

Don’ts

  • Never use wax or solvent-based polishes

It would be best if you did not use any wax or solvent-based polishes on the floors as they can damage the vinyl plank floor and, in the long run, ruin the life span of the vinyl.

  • Do not use abrasives or harsh cleaners

Abrasives or harsh cleaners and detergents should not be used on the floors. These may make the vinyl to lose its shine and be dull-looking.

  • Do not use abrasive scrubbing tools

Abrasive scrubbing tools should not be used to clean the floors as they may scratch and remove the shiny layer from the vinyl flooring.

  • Avoid vacuums with beater bars and bristled brooms

The vacuums with beater bars and bristled brooms should be avoided at all costs. These will cause visible damage to the floors.

  • Refrain from using water regularly

Water should not be used regularly as it may seep in and damage the glue holding the vinyl.

 

How to Prevent Damage to the Vinyl Floors?

Prevent Damage to the Vinyl Floors

Once you have installed your vinyl floor, you mustn’t place any furniture on it for 48 hours. Mats should be placed over the planned locations that will serve to catch dirt and spills.

Also, while doing so, make sure the mats do not have a latex or rubber backing, as this may permanently scratch the floor. And you don’t want that to happen as you cannot pain the vinyl plank floor to get rid of the scratches.

  • Use the Right Floor Protectors

You are advised to use floor protectors under heavy items to prevent tears and scuffs, which may cause permanent damage. Do not drag or push heavy items across the floors, as this may cause scratches.

Another thing is, that you are advised to forego rolling casters. Instead, use chairs with felt tips. That will help eliminate any markings that the coasters might leave on your vinyl floor and damage the look.

  • No Waxing

No wax or wax products should be used on the floor. When it comes to cleaning, the above steps and precautions should be taken to protect the vinyl flooring.

It would be best to take care of your vinyl floors and do all it takes to prevent damage. It’s essential to ensure it lasts longer and maintains its beautiful look.

 

Conclusion

Vinyl plank floors are highly affordable and family-friendly flooring options. They feature durable and waterproof properties making it well suited for those with kids.

Also, they have a stylish appearance and come in ample variety. And as explained above, they are easy to care for and maintain. It requires occasional cleaning, just like any other type of flooring.

Keep in mind the do’s and don’ts, and you will not have any problem. It is convenient for both commercial and residential purposes. Go ahead and install this floor in your kitchen, mudroom, bathroom, and many other rooms for a realistic and beautiful look.

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