Vinyl flooring is often a popular choice for many homeowners. It’s durable, affordable, and easy to maintain — but once it’s damaged, how easy is it to repair?

Like most flooring options, vinyl flooring can become damaged from everyday wear and tear, moisture exposure, or accidental cuts and gouges from objects. Luckily, repairing vinyl flooring is often a simple process that might not require professional help. 

Whether you’re fixing scratches, dents, or larger issues, learn how to repair vinyl flooring on your own and when you should consider calling the professionals.

Table of Contents

 

how to repair vinyl flooring

Can You Patch Repair Vinyl Flooring?

Patch repairing vinyl flooring is possible, but depending on the extent of the damage, it could be a DIY job or might require professional help. In some cases, a seam sealer or a small touch-up might do the job. In extenuating circumstances, vinyl planks might need to be replaced rather than repaired. 

Interior Motives Flooring offers professional vinyl flooring installation and repair services to ensure your flooring stays looking good as new. Contact us today for help.

 

how to repair vinyl flooring

Assess the Damage

Before jumping into a vinyl flooring repair, it’s important to assess the damage and determine what kind of work might be required and if it’s something you can DIY or if you should call in professional help. 

For vinyl flooring, it’s typically easy enough to replace the damaged tile or plank or use a liquid seam sealer to repair cuts and scratches. Damages range as follows:

  • Small damage: Use a seam sealer or touch-up kit to repair minor scratches or shallow dents.
  • Moderate damage: For tears or larger dents, patching with a new piece of vinyl that matches the original will suffice. 
  • Extreme damage: Vinyl flooring replacement or help from professionals might be necessary.

Common Repairs Needed for Vinyl Flooring

A handful of common issues typically arise with vinyl flooring that require repair:

  • Plank separation
  • Broken tile
  • Floor cupping
  • Pop-ups 
  • Peeling tile
  • Gouges
  • Tears or burns

Luckily, these are simple repairs that can be fixed with a DIY method and easy-to-obtain materials. 

Should you require new flooring, Interior Motives Flooring offers high-quality vinyl flooring installation in Auburn, WA. Contact us today to see how we can help..

 

5 DIY Methods for Vinyl Flooring Repairs

First things first. Gather the necessary materials to ensure a successful vinyl flooring repair for nearly any issue. You’ll need:

  • Utility knife
  • Floor scraper
  • Putty knife/applicator 
  • Replacement planks or tiles
  • Adhesive
  • Cleaning supplies
  • Safety gloves and goggles
  • Hair dryer or heating element
  • Buff pad
  • Wax stick/paste
  • Seam sealer
  • Floor putty or DIY baking soda/water paste

#1: Seam Repair

To successfully complete a vinyl floor seam repair:

  1. Clean any dirt, debris, or old adhesive from the seam and surrounding areas. 
  2. Wash the damaged area with warm water and a sponge and let it dry.
  3. Use a vinyl flooring adhesive or seam sealer specific to your type of vinyl flooring and spread it to the seam using a putty knife or applicator.
  4. Press the vinyl flooring back into place.
  5. Apply pressure using a heavy object while the adhesive dries.
  6. Once dry, apply seam sealer along the edges to protect it from further damage.

#2: Scratches and Marks

To repair scratches in vinyl flooring:

  1. Clean the area to remove dirt and debris. 
  2. Buff the damaged area with a buffer pad.
  3. Apply wax stick or paste to the scratch or mark to fill it in and leave it to set.
  4. After the wax sets, buff the area once more with a clean cloth to remove excess wax.

#3: Cuts and Gouges

To fix cuts and gouges in vinyl flooring:

  1. Clean the area to remove dirt and debris. 
  2. Cut away any jagged edges or loose pieces around the area.
  3. Apply vinyl seam sealer into the gouge and leave it to dry completely. 
  4. Buff the area so it is smooth.
  5. You may choose to use a vinyl stain pen that matches your flooring to conceal the repair.

#4: Patch Repair

Patch repairs may be necessary when the damage is a bit more extensive. To successfully patch repair vinyl flooring:

  1. Obtain a larger piece of the same vinyl flooring.
  2. Lay it precisely over the damaged area, ensuring to match any patterns on the surrounding pieces.
  3. Tape the vinyl flooring to secure it in place.
  4. Using a utility knife, cut through both pieces of vinyl (new and damaged).
  5. Remove the tape and the new piece of vinyl flooring.
  6. Use a putty knife to pull away the damaged vinyl from the floor, removing all adhesive.
  7. Clean the area thoroughly.
  8. Apply a fresh layer of adhesive using a putty knife and place the newly cut vinyl floor patch in position.
  9. Apply pressure to the vinyl patch to ensure it sticks and follow the recommended drying time.
  10. Once dry, use a seam sealer to blend the edges together.

#5: Torn Vinyl Repair

A tear in vinyl flooring might be the simplest fix of all. To repair torn vinyl:

  1. Plug in a hair dryer or similar heating element and set it to a medium setting.
  2. Use a steady back-and-forth motion to warm the damaged, peeling area.
  3. Gently scratch the tear inward to close any gaps.
  4. Apply acrylic cement beneath the torn flooring, directly to the wood subfloor if possible.
  5. Place a heavy object over the repair while it dries completely.
  6. Remove the weight once dried.

 

 

Tips for Minimizing the Need for Vinyl Flooring Repairs

If you take the time to properly clean and maintain your vinyl flooring, not only can you extend the life of your floors, but you minimize the need for repairs. 

Luckily, vinyl flooring has many pros, one being that it’s easy to maintain. Follow these simple tips for keeping your vinyl flooring well-maintained:

  • Sweep and vacuum regularly.
  • Mop with a damp cloth or mop using a mild cleaning solution designed for vinyl flooring.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners that may damage the floor.
  • Use a soft-bristled brush and vinyl-safe cleaner to remove stubborn stains.
  • Apply vinyl floor polish periodically to restore shine and protect the surface.
  • Clean spills quickly to avoid staining and potential damage.
  • Avoid dragging heavy objects.
  • Use furniture pads under heavy items to prevent scratches and indentations.
  • Use doormats and carpets to reduce dirt and grit.

 

how to repair vinyl flooring

 

Get Professional Vinyl Flooring Repair Services With Interior Motives Flooring

Taking the time to properly repair your vinyl flooring can help restore both its appearance and functionality. Whether you’re eliminating a small scratch, replacing a loose plank, or filling in a deep gouge, using the right tools is essential. 

Although many vinyl floor repairs seem simple and straightforward, not every repair is a DIY job. 

Interior Motives Flooring offers professional vinyl flooring repair services and installations for jobs that seem just out of reach to accomplish on your own. 

Our family-owned team has a combined 30+ years of experience providing high-quality care and attention to every flooring project we take on. 

Before you take on the next DIY vinyl floor repair, contact us to see how we can help.

 

how to repair vinyl flooring