How to Fix Scratches or Gouges in Vinyl Plank Flooring

Vinyl plank flooring is known for being tough, stylish, and easy to maintain — but it's not completely immune to damage. Over time, sharp objects, furniture legs, pets, or heavy foot traffic can leave behind scratches, scuffs, or even deeper gouges. While these marks can ruin the look of your floor, the good news is that most can be repaired without replacing entire planks.

This guide will walk you through simple, effective ways to fix scratches and gouges in your vinyl plank flooring and help you restore its smooth, flawless finish.

Types of Surface Damage in Vinyl Flooring

Not all damage is equal, and the method you choose to fix your vinyl floor depends on how deep the mark goes. Here are the most common types of surface damage:

• Light surface scratches: Thin, shallow marks that only affect the surface layer and don’t penetrate the vinyl wear layer.
• Deep scratches or scuffs: More visible marks that may feel rough to the touch or expose the underlying layer.
• Gouges or dents: Deeper damage caused by heavy items or sharp impacts — these often require filling or replacement.

Before choosing a repair method, inspect the area closely under good lighting to understand the depth and severity of the damage.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Having the right tools and products on hand will make your vinyl floor repair much easier and more effective. Depending on the severity of the damage, you may need just a few basic items or a full repair kit.

• Vinyl floor repair kit (includes colour-matched filler, putty knife, and texture tools)
• Microfibre cloths
• Rubbing alcohol or vinyl floor cleaner
• Scratch concealer or colour repair pens
• Heat gun or hair dryer (for minor blending, optional)
• Utility knife (for plank removal, if needed)
• Adhesive suitable for vinyl planks (for glue-down replacements)

Repair kits are ideal because they provide colour-matching options to help blend the fix seamlessly with your floor's finish.

How to Fix Light Surface Scratches

Light surface scratches are often cosmetic and can usually be fixed in just a few minutes. These minor marks don't go deep into the floor and usually affect only the protective wear layer.

1. Clean the area: Wipe the scratched spot with a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol or a vinyl-safe cleaner. This removes dirt, oils, and residue that could interfere with the repair.
2. Apply a scratch concealer or colour repair pen: Gently apply the concealer or marker to the scratch, following the direction of the plank’s grain or pattern. Let it sit for a few minutes to soak in.
3. Buff the area: Use a soft cloth to lightly buff the repaired spot in a circular motion. This helps blend the colour and restore the finish’s uniform look.

This method works best for superficial marks and can dramatically improve the floor’s appearance with minimal effort.

How to Repair Deep Scratches or Scuffs

Deeper scratches or scuffs that go beyond the top layer of your vinyl flooring may need more than a simple pen or polish. These types of marks can catch dirt, appear darker than the surrounding area, and feel rough underfoot. Here’s how to fix them:

1. Clean the damaged area: Use rubbing alcohol or a vinyl floor cleaner and a soft cloth to remove any debris or residue from the scratch.
2. Apply vinyl floor repair compound: Use a small amount of filler from your repair kit. Choose the colour that best matches your flooring or mix colours if needed for a closer match.
3. Smooth the surface: Use a putty knife to carefully spread and level the compound. Follow the direction of the plank’s grain or texture.
4. Let it cure: Allow the repair to dry completely as per the product instructions — usually a few hours.
5. Blend the finish: If your repair kit includes a texture pad or sealant, apply it to match the surrounding surface sheen and texture.

Done correctly, this method can make deep scratches virtually disappear without needing to replace the plank.

How to Fill a Gouge or Dent in LVP

Gouges and dents are deeper than typical scratches and may remove or compress part of the vinyl plank. These types of damage often require filling or, in more severe cases, replacing the affected plank. For small to medium gouges, here’s how to fill and repair the area:

1. Clean the area thoroughly: Remove any dirt, dust, or loose particles using a soft cloth and a vinyl-safe cleaner. Let the area dry completely before proceeding.
2. Apply vinyl floor filler: Use a vinyl repair compound designed for filling deeper holes. Apply a small amount into the gouge using a putty knife and spread it evenly across the damaged section.
3. Level the surface: Smooth the filler so it’s flush with the surrounding floor. Remove any excess material before it dries.
4. Let it cure: Allow the filler to fully set and harden. Follow the manufacturer’s drying time — this can range from 2 to 12 hours.
5. Blend with colour or topcoat: If needed, use a colour-matching marker or sealant to match the surrounding floor and restore a consistent finish.

If the gouge is too large or the plank is significantly damaged, it may be more effective to replace the entire plank, especially if it’s in a highly visible area.

Replacing a Damaged Vinyl Plank (if necessary)

When scratches, gouges, or dents are too severe to repair with filler or compounds, replacing the damaged vinyl plank may be the best solution. The process will vary depending on whether your floor uses a click-lock or glue-down installation method.

1. Identify the installation type: Check if your floor is a floating click system or a glued-down vinyl. This will determine the removal method.
2. For click-lock flooring: Carefully disassemble the flooring starting from the nearest wall until you reach the damaged plank. Replace it with a new one and reinstall the surrounding planks.
3. For glue-down vinyl planks: Use a utility knife to score and remove the damaged plank. Clean the subfloor underneath and apply new adhesive.
4. Install the replacement plank: Align it with the existing pattern and press it firmly into place. Use a roller if available to ensure good adhesion.
5. Let it set: Allow the adhesive to dry completely before walking on the new plank. Follow the product's drying instructions.

If you don't have leftover planks from the original installation, contact the supplier or retailer for a perfect match in pattern and finish.

Preventing Future Damage

Once your vinyl plank flooring has been repaired, taking steps to prevent future damage will help keep it looking great for years to come. Here are some simple habits and protective measures you can adopt:

• Use furniture pads: Place felt pads under the legs of chairs, sofas, tables, and other furniture to prevent scratching when they move.
• Trim pet nails regularly: Long claws can cause scratches over time, especially on textured vinyl surfaces.
• Avoid dragging heavy items: Lift furniture and appliances when moving them instead of sliding them across the floor.
• Use rugs and runners: Place rugs in high-traffic areas such as hallways and entryways to minimise wear.
• Clean with non-abrasive tools: Use a microfibre mop or soft brush vacuum to avoid scuffing the surface during cleaning.

With regular care and a few smart precautions, you can maintain the beauty and durability of your vinyl plank flooring and reduce the risk of future scratches or gouges.

Conclusion

Scratches and gouges in vinyl plank flooring may seem like a major problem, but in most cases, they can be repaired quickly and affordably. From light surface marks to deeper dents, there are effective solutions available — whether it’s using a simple scratch repair pen, vinyl filler, or replacing a damaged plank altogether.

By assessing the type of damage and using the right tools, you can restore the appearance of your vinyl floor without needing to redo the entire surface. And with a few preventative steps, like using furniture pads and cleaning with care, you can keep your floors looking like new for years to come.

If you need professional assistance or help sourcing replacement planks and repair products, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team for expert advice and support.