As one of the most popular flooring options for homeowners today, luxury vinyl plank (LVP) offers it all. It’s highly durable, relatively low maintenance, offers seamless aesthetic appeal, and is affordable (even if the word luxury is in the name!).
There’s no denying how much the floors in our home take a beating, especially during the summer months. The key to preserving your flooring is knowing how to look after it.
Check out this useful guide to cleaning luxury vinyl flooring and keep yours in tip-top condition, no matter the season.
Cleaning Luxury Vinyl Flooring: A Summer Guide
The cleaning and maintenance of your vinyl plank flooring might differ based on your region. For residents of Chesapeake, you have a range of climate changes to consider throughout the year, but let’s talk about summer care.
Chesapeake has hot, humid summer months, which fade into cold, icy winters. Here are some of the best warm-weather guidelines to follow to keep your floors in good condition:
- Due to the hot, harsh summer weather, it’s best to protect your flooring with blinds or curtains to avoid floor color fading.
- If you’re visiting the beach this summer, make sure to remove all sandy items of clothes and shoes before entering your home.
- If you do drag in beach sand, make sure to sweep/vacuum it up before it settles in between your floorboards
- Protect your floors from water, mud, and other types of dirt brought in this summer with heavy-duty doormats and washable rugs.
The fact of the matter is that Chesapeake is no stranger to humid conditions, which tend to fluctuate throughout the year. This humidity can impact your flooring, even if it is moisture-resistant.
Make an effort to use dehumidifiers during the damp, humid summer season and a humidifier during the dry months. This helps create an optimal home environment to protect your flooring.
Another great way to protect your floors is by using furniture pads. Simply place felt or foam pads under the feet of all furniture that sits on your vinyl plank flooring.
The summer humidity can make your flooring a little more vulnerable to denting, and furniture pads are the best way to avoid this. Bear in mind that you must use the appropriate furniture pads for luxury vinyl plank.
Avoid using rubber, as this can sometimes discolor the durable wear layer of the vinyl.
Other Basic Care Tips
Luxury vinyl flooring care is something to add to your everyday to-do list. It won’t take you hours, but just a small amount of effort in regular cleaning and protection can go a long way in keeping your floors in great shape.
Proper flooring cleaning ensures that the shine and texture remain intact, while appropriate maintenance generally prolongs the lifespan. Depending on where you live and your local climate, LVP floor maintenance might look a little different for everyone.
Here are some of the best cleaning practices for luxury vinyl plank flooring:
- You do not need to use abrasive tools or harsh chemicals when cleaning LVP flooring.
- Use a soft-bristle broom or microfiber mop for daily sweeping/dusting.
- Aim to vacuum your floors once a week, using the soft brush attachment on your vacuum (this is the best way to eliminate dirt and dust without scratching the floors)
When it comes to deep cleaning, aim to clean your floors thoroughly once a month:
- Stick to using mild cleaning solutions – it’s as simple as using some regular dish soap in warm water when mopping your floors.
- Always avoid harsh chemicals such as ammonia or bleach – pH-neutral cleaners are best.
During the summer months, you might need to mop your floors a little more regularly. For example, you or your family might spend more time outdoors, tracking in more dirt than usual. This is where a little extra TLC is necessary.
Spot and Stain Removal
Spills are a natural part of life. Whether you have children or pets, or you’re accident-prone, the best way to preserve and protect your LVP flooring is with immediate action. Here’s how to tackle spots and spills:
- Ensure you blot spills away with a dry cloth or paper towel – avoid wiping and swiping spills further across your flooring.
- When it comes to tough stains, use a simple solution of vinegar and warm water. Apply directly onto the stain and gently blot it away.
Try to act as promptly as possible when you spill something or notice a stain – the quicker you take care of it, the better protected your flooring will be.
When to Call the Professionals
Your floors might take a beating during the summer months, especially with multiple children or pets running through the house.
While it is entirely possible to keep your floors in tip-top condition with regular day-to-day cleaning, there are instances where professional cleaning is a good idea:
- Your floors need a refresh – it’s recommended that you get your floors professionally cleaned and refreshed at least once a year.
- Your home has just undergone renovations, and your floors have taken a beating.
- If you have stubborn stains, marks, or damage that you can’t remove yourself, despite your best efforts.
Taking the time to get your floors professionally cleaned and cared for can improve their longevity, ten-fold.
Looking to Update Your Flooring?
Cleaning luxury vinyl flooring is simpler than most homeowners think. This is why it’s one of the best no-fuss flooring options on the market today.
If your home needs a flooring refresh, Yates Flooring VA is your local go-to in the Chesapeake region. We specialize in installing and repairing luxury vinyl flooring, no matter the size or shape of your room.
If you love the look of natural wood or stone but don’t love the price tag, this is where luxury vinyl plank is the perfect option. Get in touch with our team today and transform your home.
