What to Do When Your LVT Starts Showing Wear

Hadley Glenn on June 11, 2025

What to Do When Your LVT Starts Showing Wear

Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) flooring has become a popular choice in commercial spaces and homes alike, thanks to its durability, aesthetic versatility, and ease of maintenance. From high-traffic office buildings to cozy residential interiors, LVT offers the perfect combination of practicality and style. However, even the most resilient flooring can show signs of wear over time, requiring proper care and occasional intervention to maintain its appearance and functionality.

History of LVT

Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) has evolved significantly since its inception, transitioning from a practical flooring solution to a popular choice known for its durability, aesthetic appeal, and ease of installation.

Early Developments:

  • 1926: Waldo Semon, a scientist at B.F. Goodrich, discovered how to plasticize polyvinyl chloride (PVC), creating a flexible material that would become the basis for vinyl flooring.
  • 1933: Vinyl flooring made its public debut at the Century of Progress International Exposition in Chicago, showcasing its potential as a resilient and cost-effective flooring option.

Post-War Popularity: 

  • 1940s-1950s: After World War II, vinyl flooring gained popularity due to its affordability and durability, becoming a common choice in homes, schools, and hospitals.
  • 1960s: Advancements led to the introduction of various patterns and designs, including those mimicking wood and stone, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of vinyl flooring.

Emergence of Luxury Vinyl Tile:

  • 1960s-1970s: Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) emerged as an improved form of sheet vinyl, offering enhanced durability and designs that closely resembled traditional hardwood floors.
  • Late 20th Century: Technological advancements in printing allowed for more realistic wood and stone patterns on vinyl surfaces, increasing the popularity of LVT in both residential and commercial settings.

Modern Innovations:

  • 2000s-Present: The rise of DIY home improvement trends contributed to the popularity of LVT, with features like peel-and-stick installation making it accessible to homeowners.
  • Recent Years: LVT has seen a renaissance, offering realistic wood and stone looks with greater durability and water resistance, making it a preferred choice for various applications.

Today, LVT continues to be a versatile and stylish flooring option, combining the timeless appeal of natural materials with the practical benefits of vinyl.

How LVT is Constructed

Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) is a multi-layered flooring product engineered to combine durability, aesthetic appeal, and ease of maintenance. Its construction involves several distinct layers, each serving a specific function:

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  • Wear Layer: This topmost transparent layer protects the floor from scratches, stains, and scuffs. Its thickness varies, typically ranging from 0.3mm to 0.7mm, with thicker layers offering enhanced durability, especially in high-traffic areas.
  • Print Film Layer: Beneath the wear layer, this layer features high-definition printed designs that replicate the appearance of natural materials like wood or stone. Advanced printing technologies enable the creation of realistic textures and patterns.
  • Vinyl Core Layer: This layer provides the flooring with structure and resilience. Composed of PVC and other compounds, it contributes to the floor’s comfort underfoot and its ability to withstand daily wear.
  • Backing Layer: The bottom layer offers stability and support to the entire flooring structure. It also serves as a moisture barrier, enhancing the floor’s resistance to water and contributing to its overall durability.

The manufacturing process of LVT involves fusing these layers together using heat and pressure, ensuring a cohesive and durable product.

What Causes LVT to Wear?

The surface wear of Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) primarily results from degradation or damage to its top protective layers. Key factors include:

  • Wear Layer Degradation: High foot traffic, furniture movement, or pet activity can wear down this protective layer over time.
  • Improper Cleaning Practices: Abrasive tools and harsh chemicals can scratch or degrade the wear layer.
  • Sunlight Exposure: Prolonged UV exposure can cause fading and discoloration.
  • Moisture and Humidity: Excessive moisture can lead to adhesive breakdown or warping in glue-down installations.

What to Do When Your LVT Flooring Shows Wear

When LVT flooring begins to show signs of wear, addressing the issue promptly can prevent further damage and extend its lifespan. Here’s how you can effectively manage and repair worn LVT flooring:

1. Evaluate the Extent of the Wear

Before deciding on a repair or replacement strategy, it’s essential to assess the severity of the wear:

  • Surface Wear: If the wear is limited to minor scuffs or scratches in the wear layer, simple solutions like polishing or applying a protective coating can restore the floor’s appearance.
  • Structural Damage: For issues such as lifting tiles, deep scratches exposing the print layer, or moisture damage, more intensive measures may be necessary.

2. Perform Preventative Maintenance

Implementing proper maintenance practices can help delay the onset of visible wear:

  • Regular Cleaning: Use a pH-neutral cleaner and a soft mop or cloth to remove dirt and debris without damaging the wear layer.
  • Furniture Protection: Add felt pads to furniture legs to reduce the risk of scratches and scuffs.
  • Sunlight Control: Use blinds or curtains to protect the flooring from prolonged UV exposure that can cause fading.

3. Apply a Protective Finish

If surface scratches are affecting the appearance of your LVT, applying a protective finish may be the solution:

  • Acrylic Finish: Acrylic coatings can temporarily restore shine and reduce the visibility of surface scratches. However, they require regular reapplication and maintenance.
  • Aliphatic Urethane: This advanced finish offers superior durability, effectively mimicking the factory-applied wear layer. Available in matte or gloss finishes, aliphatic urethane is ideal for high-traffic areas and provides a long-lasting solution.

4. Replace Damaged Sections

For localized damage, consider replacing only the affected tiles:

  • Interlocking Systems: Floating LVT floors with interlocking planks are easier to repair, as individual tiles can be replaced without disturbing the surrounding area.
  • Glue-Down Systems: These may require more effort, as the adhesive needs to be carefully removed and reapplied during the repair process.

5. Invest in Professional Restoration Services

Professional services can breathe new life into your worn LVT floors:

  • Deep Cleaning: Professionals can use specialized equipment and solutions to deep clean your LVT, removing embedded dirt and restoring its original luster.
  • Surface Restoration: Companies like DPM Surface Care can apply advanced coatings, such as aliphatic urethanes, to rejuvenate your flooring and extend its lifespan.

6. Consider Long-Term Costs

When deciding between repair and replacement, factor in long-term costs:

  • Repairs with durable finishes like aliphatic urethane may have higher upfront costs but save money over time by reducing the need for frequent maintenance or replacements.
  • Full replacement should be reserved for cases where the damage compromises the flooring’s structural integrity or aesthetic appeal.

Contact DPM Surface Care for Your LVT Needs

Is your LVT starting to show signs of wear? Don’t wait until minor issues turn into costly replacements. At DPM Surface Care, we specialize in evaluating and restoring LVT flooring using the latest techniques and materials. Contact us today to discuss your flooring needs and discover the best solutions to keep your LVT looking its best. Let’s work together to extend the life of your floors while staying within your budget.