How to Repair Vinyl Plank Flooring: A Hands-on Homeowner’s Guide

Vinyl plank flooring (LVP) is a cost-effective, DIY-friendly option for those who want to mimic the look of natural wood. If you install vinyl plank flooring yourself and understand how the planks fit together, you can handle repairs yourself.

I’m a former residential carpenter with experience installing vinyl plank flooring installation and repair it. I collaborated with Nick Yahoodain, CEO of Advanced Builders and Contractors, to create this guide on how to repair vinyl plank flooring.

If you’re comfortable with DIY home improvement projects and you kept a few extra planks, you can fix vinyl plank flooring. Yahoodain recommends reading the back of the flooring box, if you still have it, or checking the manufacturer’s site to make sure you’re not voiding any warranties.

Common Problems With Vinyl Plank Flooring

Before we dive into repairs, it’s important to identify which issue you’re facing with your vinyl plank flooring. Here are the most common problems homeowners encounter.
If you’re facing issues due to installation, you might want to review some of the most common flooring installation mistakes first.

End plank separation

Multiple factors can cause planks to separate. Humidity levels or physical shifting due to high foot traffic can cause unsightly gaps between the ends of planks. This is more typically an issue with click-lock floors than with adhesive installations. Fortunately, this also is one of the easiest problems to fix.

Side plank separation

Humidity and temperature changes can cause planks to contract, creating gaps along the sides. Improper installation can also be the culprit. Either way, these unsightly spaces can be easily fixed with a tube of putty.

Pop-ups

Planks sometimes pop up and out of place. These unsightly exposed edges can catch on your shoes or socks, causing you to trip. If failed glue causes the pop-up, follow the steps below. If it’s a moisture issue warping the subfloor below, contact a flooring or plumbing pro to properly diagnose the cause.

Scratches

Minor scratches on LVP flooring are often hard to see unless you look really closely. Deep scratches appear as white lines that can be an eyesore, especially on dark-colored planks.

Gouges/dents

Gouges and dents that penetrate several layers of the plank are notoriously difficult to repair. Because most vinyl plank flooring has a wood grain pattern, it can be difficult to make an invisible patch.
If you have extra planks, it’s probably easier to replace the plank than to patch the gouge. But if the gouge or dent is not too deep, or you don’t have spare planks, try filler putty.

Cupping

Cupping occurs when the edges of the planks rise up, creating a concave “cup” shape. This is usually caused by moisture or temperature fluctuations.

Essential Tools and Materials For Repairs

Before attempting any flooring repairs gather these essential tools including a vinyl plank flooring repair kit. You can also explore these top tools for the DIY enthusiast for more helpful recommendations. According to Simple Flooring, you need utility knives, replacement planks, floor scraper, adhesive, cleaning supplies and safety gloves.

How to Fix End Plank Separation

• Vacuum the gap to remove any dust or debris. This creates a tight seam between the two planks.
• Attach a suction cup to the board you intend to scoot toward the other.
• Tap the suction cup with the rubber mallet, scooting the board into the other and closing the gap.
• Continue this method to eliminate the resulting gap at the other end. The last gap should be hidden behind your baseboard, effectively fixing vinyl plank floor gaps.

How to Fix Side Plank Separation

• Purchase a putty specifically for vinyl flooring use; some putties and caulks aren’t rated to withstand foot traffic. If possible, select a color that closely matches that of your floor.
• Vacuum and thoroughly clean the gap. Let it dry overnight.
• Position the nozzle of the putty tube in the gap, squeeze, then run it along the length of the gap.
• Run a plastic putty knife along the gap to remove any excess. Wipe up any remaining putty on the plank with a damp sponge.
• Allow the putty to dry and set according to the instructions.

How To Fix Scratches on Vinyl Plank Flooring

Scratches are often caused by chairs scraping across the floor, so make sure you always use felt floor protectors under your chair feet to minimize the need for scratch repair for vinyl floors.

• Thoroughly clean the plank with soap and water to remove any dirt or grease from the scratch.
• Use a furniture repair marker or a repair pen to color in the white lines. These markers and pens are available in many popular LVP flooring colors.
• If your scratches are really noticeable and contain one or two planks, replace the plank with a new one if you’re comfortable doing it.

Fixing Pop-Ups

• Carefully peel up and remove the popped-up plank with a scraper tool. You can re-use this plank if it’s in good shape. If not, consider learning how to replace a damaged vinyl plank with a new one.
• Scrape off the dried adhesive on the subfloor below and vacuum up any debris.
• Apply a VPF adhesive to the subfloor, closely following the application instructions.
• Place the plank on top of the adhesive and, with a roller, press it down tight. Place a dumbbell or other heavy object on the board while the adhesive dries.

Repairing Gouges/Dents

• Purchase a color-matched filler putty formulated for use with vinyl plank flooring.
• Wash the dented or gouged plank to create a clean and smooth work surface. Allow it to dry completely.
• Fill the damaged area with the putty, removing any excess with a plastic putty knife.
• Follow any specific drying and sanding instructions for the putty you used.

Addressing Cupping Issues

Before attempting to repair cupped flooring, it’s important to find out exactly what’s causing it. If it’s high humidity or temperature fluctuations, the planks can potentially return to their original shape by running a dehumidifier or installing curtains to prevent direct sunlight exposure.

But if the issue is moisture damage underneath the flooring, you’ll likely need to replace the cupped planks. Contact a flooring installer or plumber to diagnose the cause.

FAQ

What tools do I need to fix vinyl plank flooring?

Basic tools include a rubber mallet, putty knife, scraper tool, suction cup and appropriate repair materials such as color-matching putty and adhesive to help you figure out how to repair vinyl plank flooring.

Is it possible to replace just one damaged vinyl plank?

Yes, according to Bubblegum Flooring, a flooring company in the Milwaukee area, replacing a single plank is a doable DIY project with the right tools and techniques. If a plank is damaged, replacing it can prevent the issue from spreading to other planks. But if the subfloor is causing the damage, replacing just one plank may not work and you will likely need to address the entire area.

How can I repair small scratches on vinyl planks?

To repair small scratches on vinyl planks, start by cleaning the area thoroughly, as dirt trapped in the texture can often be mistaken for a scratch. According to Easipay Carpets, for light scuff marks and minor scratches, try using a tennis ball and gently rub it over the scratch to buff it out. Also, you can use a clean eraser to remove the scratches. These simple DIY methods can help restore your vinyl planks without need to resort to more extensive repairs.

About the expert

• Nick Yahoodain is the CEO of Advanced Builder and Contractors, a reputable company established in 2007. With years of experience, Yahoodain has become a trusted expert in home improvement projects. 

Sources:

• Simple Flooring: “How to Repair Vinyl Plank Flooring — Best Tips”
• Bubblegum Flooring: “Can I Replace a Single Vinyl Plank?”
• Easipay Carpets: “How To Remove Scratches From Vinyl Flooring”