How to Repair Click Lock Vinyl Plank Flooring?
A well-maintained click-lock vinyl plank floor will last for a long time. However, if it starts to show signs of wear and tear, it may be time for repair. Luckily, there are several things you can do to fix click-lock flooring problems and keep it looking its best!
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Prevent Gaps
One of the most common problems with click lock vinyl plank flooring is gaps between planks. This happens for a number of reasons, including humidity levels and physical shifting due to foot traffic.
Fortunately, these gaps can be fixed quite easily. You can fill them in with a tube of putty that matches the color of your planks. Just be sure to use a good quality brand that’s rated for vinyl flooring.
You can also fill in gaps using wood putty, though this isn’t as visually appealing. You’ll need to clean the gap first and make sure it’s dry before you use the putty.
Choose a Floor That Will Stand Up to Daily Use
When it comes to your flooring, it’s crucial to choose a type that can handle frequent wear and tear. For example, if you have pets or heavy foot traffic, consider vinyl plank flooring that has a wear layer of 20 mils.
If you don’t have a lot of foot traffic, you can save money by choosing a less expensive style of vinyl flooring. For example, Mannington Adura Max is a great choice because it features a ScratchResist urethane with aluminum oxide that’s designed to be able to withstand everyday wear.
The thickness of the vinyl plank is another important consideration when deciding on a flooring material for your home. While thicker floors may be more comfortable underfoot, they’re not as durable and may not hold up as long. Generally speaking, 12 mil vinyl is the standard for most homes.
It’s not recommended to use underlayment 2 beneath a vinyl click-lock floor, except in damp areas where you need to protect your subfloor from moisture. It’s especially important to choose a vapor barrier when installing in high-moisture areas, such as below-grade concrete or basements.
Installing a vapor barrier is an essential part of protecting your flooring, because it prevents water from entering the subfloor and warping the vinyl. A vapor barrier is also beneficial in helping prevent your flooring from becoming prone to staining and discoloration.
You can also choose to add a coat of protective sealant after installing your vinyl planks. This helps prevent spills from soaking in and can help keep the floor looking its best.
If your flooring has been soiled by spills and stains, be sure to clean it up as soon as possible. Stains that are fresh can be cleaned up with a cleaning solution and a soft nylon brush. If they’re old, treat them with isopropyl alcohol or hydrogen peroxide to remove the stains.
To keep your vinyl floor looking its best, you should clean it regularly. A vacuum cleaner and a dry mop can help to catch the dirt, dust, and debris that can accumulate and cause scratches on your vinyl planks.