How to Protect LVT Flooring from Scratches

LVT flooring is a popular choice amongst homeowners and business owners. However, there is a misconception among them that it doesn't get scratched and faded. But, like any other flooring, luxury vinyl tiles can also be scratched and fade if not properly cared for.

8 Tips to Protect LVT Flooring from Scratches

To ensure your luxury vinyl tile flooring remains pristine, you should follow these 8 tips. These tips will not only prevent scratches but also keep luxury vinyl tile floors looking new.

1. Use Furniture Pads

One of the most common reasons for scratches on LVT flooring is furniture. Furniture legs put so much pressure on the floors. Hence, chairs, tables, and other pieces can leave marks when moved. To prevent this:

• You can place felt or cotton furniture pads on the bottoms of all furniture legs to prevent scratches. Make sure you don't go for rubber pads as they can stain the luxury vinyl tiles.
• Replace these pads or caps when they get damaged.
• For heavier furniture, use only wider pads so that the weight gets distributed more evenly.

2. Place Rugs and Mats Strategically

High-traffic areas have more chances of getting scratched. Here, in this situation, you can protect your LVT flooring by the following actions: 

• Place the doormats at the entrances to catch all dirt and debris that can scratch the floor. 
• Area rugs are large so they are one of the best solutions to prevent many furniture issues. Place the area rugs on places like guest rooms, hallways, and sink areas where furniture is placed and people walk frequently. 
• Also, to prevent rugs from moving and causing friction, go for rugs that have non-slip backings. 

3. Clean Regularly

Do you know that the dirt, sand, and other particles that seem nothing, but work like sandpaper on floors? And this leads to scratches. However, luxury vinyl tile flooring requires regular mopping. So keep your LVT flooring clean by:

• Regular sweeping or vacuuming LVT floors to remove dirt and dust.
• You can use a damp mop with a manufacturer-recommended cleaner to keep the floors clean without leaving a residue.
• Never use bleach or harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaning tools that can damage the tile's finish.

4. Trim Pet Nails

This is a helpful tip for houses with pets. Pets can scratch your LVT flooring with their nails. Here is what you can do: 

• You can keep trimming their nails.
• You can place scratch posts or pads for cats to keep their claws from getting too sharp.
• Use pet-friendly floor mats in areas where they spend the most time.

5. Use Protective Film

Suppose, your home is undergoing renovation or construction work. So, the heavy traffic and dirt are must-haves. However, you can consider applying a protective film. This temporary measure can: 

• Protect your LVT flooring from scratches, spills, dirt, and other potential damage.
• This protective film can be easily removed without leaving any residue once the work is done. 

6. Implement a No-Shoes Policy

Shoes can track in dirt and stones, leading to scratches on LVT flooring. To stop this you can:

• Encourage a no-shoes policy inside the home or office.
• Provide a designated area for people to remove and store their shoes near the entrance.
• Offer indoor slippers or socks for guests to use.

7. Handle Heavy Objects with Care

Both, in homes and offices, there is a need to place or shift heavy objects from one place to another. Dragging them is not a solution. This can scratch the LVT flooring badly. Instead,

• You can lift and carry heavy items with the help of another person.
• Furniture sliders or moving blankets are best to glide items without scratching the luxury vinyl tile floors.
• Or, you can consider hiring professional movers for large and heavy objects.

8. Maintain Your Floor’s Finish

Here are some additional tips to ensure your LVT flooring looks as good as new. Simultaneously, you can prevent it from further damage by using a protective coating. It makes luxury vinyl tiles totally resilient and brilliantly bold. Also, the additional protective outer layer seals the floor to make it stain and scrape-resistant while filling in old cracks and scratches. This revolutionizes its shine and protects it from bacteria and dirt. 

• You can maintain this finish by following the manufacturer’s guidelines for any reapplication of protective coatings.
• Use only approved cleaning products that won’t strip or dull the finish.
• Keep regularly inspecting the floor whether it gets worn or damaged to repair it as soon as possible.

Don't Let Scratches Get You Down

Protecting your LVT flooring from scratches involves a combination of preventive measures and regular maintenance. By using furniture pads, placing rugs, cleaning frequently, trimming pet nails, using protective films, implementing a no-shoes policy, handling heavy objects with care, and maintaining your floor’s finish, you can keep your luxury vinyl tiles looking beautiful for years to come. With these simple steps, you can enjoy the durability and elegance of luxury vinyl tile flooring without worrying about unsightly scratches. 

Contact Tiles of Europe - Don’t Let Your LVT Flooring Get Damaged!