How to Repair Scratches and Dents in Vinyl Flooring

Heavy furniture, dropped objects, or even pet claws can leave behind scratches and dents that spoil the look of your floor. For this reason and more features like  durability, stylish designs, and budget-friendly pricing, vinyl flooring has become one of the most popular choices for homes and offices. Whether you’re using luxury vinyl tiles (LVT), vinyl planks, or sheet vinyl, this flooring can handle everyday wear and tear. But like any surface, it isn’t completely immune to damage. 

The good news? You don’t always need to replace an entire section of flooring. With the right repair techniques and tools, you can restore your vinyl floors to look almost as good as new. Lets look into the detailed guide you to help you step by step on how to repair scratches and dents in vinyl flooring—from minor scuffs to deeper marks.

Common Causes of Scratches and Dents in Vinyl Flooring

Before repairing, it’s helpful to understand what causes the damage:

• Furniture pressure – Heavy desks, chairs, or tables without protective pads.
  
  
• Dropped items – Sharp or heavy objects hitting the surface.
  
  
• High foot traffic – Repeated movement in busy areas like hallways.
  
  
• Pets – Dogs and cats scratching the surface.
  
  
• Improper cleaning tools – Using harsh brushes or abrasive cleaners.
  

How to Repair Scratches in Vinyl Flooring

1. For Light Surface Scratches

• Clean the Area: Use a mild vinyl-safe cleaner to remove dirt and debris.
  
  
• Buff with a Soft Cloth: Rub gently in a circular motion; sometimes light scratches are only surface-level.
  
  
• Apply a Vinyl Floor Sealer: This helps smooth out the scratch and protect the area.
  
  

2. For Medium Scratches

• Use a Scratch Repair Kit: Available at most flooring suppliers, these kits contain putty or wax that matches your vinyl color.
  
  
• Fill the Scratch: Apply the putty, smooth with a putty knife, and let it dry.
  
  
• Seal It: Use a thin coat of floor polish to blend the repaired area.
  
  

3. For Deep Scratches

• Vinyl Patch Method: Cut a matching piece of vinyl from leftover material or purchase a replacement tile/plank.
  
  
• Cut and Replace: Carefully remove the damaged section and glue in the new patch.
  
  
• Blend: Use seam sealer to ensure the patch integrates smoothly with the surrounding flooring.
  

How to Repair Dents in Vinyl Flooring

1. Small Dents (from Chairs/Light Furniture)

• Warm the Area: Use a hairdryer on low heat to gently warm the vinyl. Heat helps it become flexible.
  
  
• Massage the Dent: Rub the area with a spoon or cloth to encourage the vinyl to bounce back.
  
  

2. Larger Dents (from Heavy Furniture)

• Remove the Source: Shift furniture and add felt pads or coasters to prevent future dents.
  
  
• Vinyl Repair Compound: Apply filler to even out the dent, then smooth and seal the surface.
  
  

Pro Tips for Preventing Future Damage

• Use furniture pads or coasters under heavy items.
• Place rugs in high-traffic areas.
• Trim your pets’ nails regularly.
• Avoid dragging furniture, lift instead.
• Stick to vinyl-safe cleaning products (no abrasives).

Scratches and dents don’t have to mean the end of your beautiful vinyl flooring. With the right repair techniques, from simple buffing and sealing to patch replacements, you can bring your floors back to life and avoid costly replacements. The key is acting quickly, using the right products, and taking preventive measures like furniture pads and proper cleaning routines.

In the long run, a little care goes a long way in preserving the look and strength of your vinyl floors. And if the damage feels beyond DIY fixes, don’t worry—professional flooring solutions are always available to restore your space.

Thinking about upgrading or repairing your vinyl flooring in the UAE? Partner with a trusted flooring manufacturer and let experts help you maintain a floor that looks stunning and lasts for years.