Although vinyl plank floors are durable, all floor coverings require some care to look their best
and many problems can be prevented before they occur. The type and frequency of traffic on your
floor will determine the frequency of maintenance needed. The type of floor and even the color
will also have some bearing on how much care may be necessary. For example, solid color floors
will visually show scuffs, scratches, dirt and general wear to a greater degree than multi-colors
of chips or patterns. Of course, white or light colors will visually show staining to a greater
degree than darker colors. For this reason, solid color and white floors should receive special
attention in regard to preventative maintenance and amount of care provided. Good judgment when
choosing the type and style of floor will help prevent maintenance problems before the floor is
even installed!
Here are the proper steps for maintaining your vinyl plank floor:
- In order to prevent indentations and scratches, provide glass, plastic or other non-staining cups with flat under surfaces not less than 2" in width for the legs of heavy furniture or appliance. Equip swiveled-type office chairs and other rolling furniture with broad surface non-staining casters at least 2" in diameter. Remove small diameter buttons from the legs of straight chairs and replace with metal glides that have bearing surfaces no less than 1" in diameter.
- Protect your floor against burns. Burns from the glowing end of a cigarette, matches, or other extremely hot items can damage floors.
- Do not flood floor or subject to frequent standing water. Problems associated with excessive moisture can affect the job site and should be addressed.
- Protect your floor from tracked-in-dirt and grit particles by using walk off mats at all outside entrances. Take time to remove any imbedded grit particles from shoe soles before entering the room.
- Avoid the use of rubber-backed mats, as certain rubber compounds can permanently stain vinyl. Avoid tracking in tar or asphalt from driveways, as this can also discolor vinyl.
- Do not use vinegar, one-step cleaner/polishes or oil soaps on vinyl plank products.
- Most vinyl plank floors have a good resistance to stains. They are not affected by most common household spills: however, any spill should be cleaned up immediately. The longer the spilled materials are left on the floor, the greater the risk of permanently staining the floor.
- Avoid exposure to direct sunlight for prolonged periods. During peak sunlight hours, the use of the drapes or blinds is recommended. Prolonged direct sunlight can result in discoloration, and excessive temperatures might cause tile expansion.
- Do not use vinegar as a cleaning agent on vinyl Products.
Stain Removal
To remove stubborn spots or stains from Luxury Vinyl floors, always begin with mild cleaners.
If this fails to remove stain, use mineral spirits. Do not use harsh solvents such as lacquer
thinner, as these can permanently soften the vinyl surface. For extreme staining (paints,
permanent markers, dyes) try applying fingernail polish remover containing acetone (not straight
acetone) applied to a soft cloth and rubbing. Any damage resulting from use of pure solvents IS
NOT covered by warranty. Always test stronger cleaning agents on sample pieces or in
unnoticeable areas first.
|