How to Protect Vinyl Flooring from Scratches: Choosing Scratch-Resistant Options

Vinyl flooring is a great choice for commercial spaces—it’s durable, looks great, and is easy to maintain. But like any flooring, it can still get scratched over time. If you’re wondering how to protect vinyl flooring from scratches, the good news is that with the right care and the right type of vinyl, you can keep it looking great for years.

In this guide, we’ll go over simple ways to prevent scratches and help you choose the best scratch resistant vinyl flooring for your space.

Why Does Vinyl Flooring Get Scratched?

Vinyl flooring is designed to be tough, but no flooring is completely scratch-proof. Over time, everyday activities can take a toll, especially in high-traffic areas.

Common Causes of Scratches on Vinyl Flooring

Even though vinyl flooring is built to handle wear and tear, scratches can still happen. Here are some of the biggest culprits:

• Furniture Movement – Chairs, tables, and heavy furniture can leave marks when they’re dragged or even slightly shifted across the floor. Office spaces, waiting areas, and dining establishments often see this type of damage.
• Dirt and Debris – Small particles of dirt, sand, or grit brought in from outside can act like tiny blades, slowly wearing down the surface of vinyl flooring as people walk over them.
• Footwear and Pets – High heels, work boots, and shoes with rough soles can scuff up vinyl over time. Pet claws, especially if they’re not trimmed regularly, can also leave fine scratches.
• Dragging Heavy Objects – Moving equipment, filing cabinets, or large storage containers without lifting them can leave deep gouges in the floor.
• Improper Cleaning Tools – Some vacuums have beater bars that can scuff the surface, while stiff-bristled brooms or abrasive scrub pads can wear down the protective layer of the vinyl.

Can Scratches on Vinyl Flooring Be Prevented?

Yes! While no floor is 100% scratch-proof, vinyl is one of the more durable options. The key is proper maintenance and preventive measures to reduce the chances of damage. Taking small steps, like using furniture pads and keeping floors clean, can make a big difference.

How Easy Is It to Fix Scratches on Vinyl?

That depends on how deep the scratch is. Light surface scratches can sometimes be buffed out or minimized with special floor polishes or scratch repair kits. Deeper scratches, however, may require more effort—such as replacing a vinyl plank or tile. That’s why prevention is always better than trying to fix the damage later.

Is Vinyl Flooring More Scratch-Resistant Than Other Types of Flooring?

Vinyl flooring is often more resistant to scratches than hardwood and laminate, but it’s not completely scratch-proof. The thickness of the wear layer and whether the vinyl has a protective coating make a big difference in how well it holds up to scratches over time. Some high-quality scratch resistant vinyl flooring options have extra layers designed to withstand heavy use, making them a smart choice for commercial spaces.

While scratches can happen, choosing the right vinyl flooring and taking simple precautions can help keep floors looking great for years to come.

How to Protect Vinyl Flooring from Scratches

Vinyl flooring is designed to be tough, but like any type of flooring, it requires proper care to stay in great shape. While scratches are inevitable in high-traffic spaces, there are plenty of ways to minimize damage and keep your floors looking new for years to come.

Here are some of the best ways to prevent scratches on vinyl flooring, whether in an office, restaurant, retail space, or any other commercial setting.

1. Use Furniture Pads to Prevent Scuff Marks

Furniture is one of the biggest culprits when it comes to scratched vinyl flooring. The constant shifting of chairs, tables, and other heavy objects can wear down the surface over time. One of the simplest and most affordable ways to protect your floors is by adding furniture pads.

• Felt pads: These soft pads stick to the bottom of furniture legs and provide a protective barrier between the furniture and the floor.
• Rubber caps: Great for chairs and tables that are moved frequently, rubber caps help reduce impact and friction.
• Furniture glides: For larger, heavier pieces like conference tables or display shelving, using furniture glides can make movement easier and prevent scratching.

How Often Should Furniture Pads Be Replaced?

Over time, felt and rubber pads wear down and may no longer provide full protection. It’s a good idea to check them every few months and replace them if they start to look thin or dirty.

2. Use Rugs and Mats in High-Traffic Areas

Another simple way to protect vinyl flooring is by placing rugs and mats in areas where people walk the most.

• Entryways – Placing mats at entrances can catch dirt and small debris before it reaches the floor.
• Hallways and pathways – Long runners or carpeted mats help absorb impact and reduce friction from foot traffic.
• Under desks and chairs – Protective mats under rolling office chairs can prevent scuff marks and scratches from constant movement.

What Kind of Mats Work Best on Vinyl Flooring?

Not all mats are created equal. Some rugs and mats have rubber or latex backing, which can cause discoloration or damage the vinyl surface over time. Look for:

• Non-staining, vinyl-safe mats specifically designed for use on hard floors.
• Cotton or fabric-backed rugs that provide cushioning without leaving residue.
• Vinyl-friendly office chair mats if using rolling chairs to prevent scuff marks.

3. Sweep and Mop Regularly to Prevent Abrasions

Keeping your vinyl floors free of dirt, dust, and debris is one of the best ways to prevent scratches. Even tiny particles of dust can act like sandpaper when walked on, slowly wearing down the protective surface.

How Often Should You Clean Vinyl Flooring?

For commercial spaces, a daily cleaning routine is best, especially in high-traffic areas.

• Sweep or vacuum daily – This removes loose dirt and grit before it can cause damage.
• Use a microfiber mop – Unlike traditional string mops, microfiber mops pick up fine particles without leaving streaks or pushing dirt around.
• Stick to vinyl-safe cleaners – Harsh chemicals can wear down the protective layer of your flooring. Choose a gentle, pH-balanced cleaner made for vinyl.

What Cleaning Products Should Be Avoided?

Avoid using:

• Abrasive powders or scrubbing cleaners – These can scratch and dull the surface.
• Ammonia-based cleaners – They can break down the protective coating of vinyl over time.
• Excessive water – While vinyl is water-resistant, too much moisture can seep into seams and weaken the adhesive.

4. Lift, Don’t Drag Heavy Furniture and Equipment

One of the most common ways vinyl floors get scratched is by dragging heavy objects across them. Whether you’re rearranging furniture, setting up displays, or moving office equipment, always lift instead of dragging.

What If Lifting Isn’t an Option?

If moving heavy objects is unavoidable, consider these alternatives:

• Furniture sliders – These are small, cushioned discs placed under furniture legs to help glide items across the floor with minimal resistance.
• Moving blankets – Wrapping items in thick moving blankets can reduce friction and prevent scuffing.
• Dollies and hand trucks – When transporting large furniture or equipment, use a wheeled dolly to avoid unnecessary floor contact.

5. Trim Pet Nails to Minimize Surface Scratches

If your commercial space allows pets—such as in a pet-friendly office, vet clinic, or retail store—it’s important to keep pet nails trimmed to avoid small scratches on the vinyl surface.

• Schedule regular trims – Keeping pet nails short reduces the risk of tiny surface scratches.
• Use protective pet mats – Placing a mat in areas where pets frequently walk can help minimize wear.
• Apply a scratch-resistant coating – Some vinyl floors have protective coatings that help prevent minor damage from pet activity.

Does Vinyl Flooring Hold Up Well in Pet-Friendly Spaces?

Yes, vinyl flooring is one of the best choices for pet-friendly areas because it’s:

• Scratch-resistant (with a thick wear layer).
• Waterproof, making it easy to clean up accidents.
• More forgiving than hardwood, as it doesn’t show scratches as easily.

However, no floor is completely scratch-proof, so taking preventive steps will help keep vinyl looking its best.

6. Use the Right Cleaning Tools to Prevent Damage

Not all cleaning tools are safe for vinyl. Some can do more harm than good by causing micro-abrasions or wearing down the protective coating.

Cleaning Tools to Avoid

• Vacuum cleaners with beater bars – These rotating brushes can scuff and damage the surface. Instead, use a vacuum without a beater bar or switch to the hard floor setting.
• Steel wool or rough scrubbers – These can leave behind visible scratches that dull the finish.
• Steam mops – While vinyl is water-resistant, high heat can weaken the adhesive and warp the material over time. Stick with a damp mop instead.

Best Cleaning Tools for Vinyl Flooring

• Soft-bristle brooms – Ideal for quick daily sweeps to remove dirt.
• Microfiber mops – Great for deeper cleaning without damaging the surface.
• Non-abrasive sponges – Useful for spot-cleaning stubborn marks or scuffs.

Protecting vinyl flooring from scratches doesn’t have to be complicated. By taking a few simple precautions—like using furniture pads, rugs, and the right cleaning tools—you can extend the life of your floors and keep them looking like new.

Choosing Scratch-Resistant Vinyl Flooring

If you’re installing new vinyl flooring in a commercial space, choosing a scratch-resistant option is key to maintaining its appearance and durability over time. Not all vinyl flooring is created equal—some are designed to withstand heavy use and resist scratches better than others. Understanding what to look for when selecting vinyl flooring will help you make an informed decision that suits your business’s needs.

1. Look for a Thicker Wear Layer for Better Protection

The wear layer is the topmost protective coating on vinyl flooring. This layer acts as a shield, protecting the design and core of the flooring from damage caused by foot traffic, furniture, and general wear and tear.

• Why does the wear layer matter?
  The thicker the wear layer, the more durable and scratch-resistant the flooring will be. A thicker wear layer creates a buffer between the surface and potential sources of damage.
• What’s the best wear layer thickness for commercial spaces?
  • 12 to 20 mil – Suitable for light to moderate foot traffic (offices, small retail shops).
  • 20 to 30 mil – Ideal for high-traffic areas (restaurants, healthcare facilities, lobbies).
  • 30+ mil – Designed for extreme durability, best for large commercial spaces like shopping malls or airports.

If your space experiences heavy foot traffic or frequent furniture movement, investing in at least a 20-mil wear layer is highly recommended.

2. Choose Vinyl Flooring with an Enhanced Urethane Coating

Another important factor in scratch resistance is the type of finish or coating applied to the wear layer. Many higher-end vinyl floors come with an enhanced urethane finish, which provides extra protection against scratches, scuffs, and stains.

• What does a urethane coating do?
  • Increases scratch and stain resistance.
  • Makes cleaning easier by repelling dirt and grime.
  • Reduces signs of wear in high-traffic areas.
• Is urethane-coated vinyl worth it?
  If your business sees constant movement of chairs, shopping carts, or equipment, a urethane-coated vinyl floor will hold up much better over time compared to standard vinyl. It’s a great investment for maintaining the floor’s appearance with less maintenance.

3. Consider Rigid Core Vinyl for Maximum Durability

Vinyl flooring comes in different core types, and rigid core vinyl is one of the toughest options available. There are two main types of rigid core vinyl:

• SPC (Stone Plastic Composite) – Made with a mix of limestone powder and stabilizers, SPC vinyl is extremely dense and durable. It’s resistant to impact, scratches, and dents, making it an excellent choice for commercial spaces with heavy equipment or rolling carts.
• WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) – While slightly softer than SPC, WPC flooring still offers great scratch resistance and is comfortable underfoot. It’s a good choice for offices, hotel lobbies, and retail stores where aesthetics and durability both matter.
• When should you choose SPC over WPC?
  • SPC is better for high-traffic areas where maximum durability is needed.
  • WPC is better for spaces where comfort is a priority, such as office environments or waiting areas.

Both options provide better scratch resistance than standard vinyl planks and help keep floors looking newer for longer.

4. Select Textured Vinyl Flooring to Minimize the Appearance of Scratches

Some premium vinyl flooring options come with textured surfaces, which not only add visual depth but also help disguise minor scratches and scuffs.

• Why does texture matter?
  • A smooth, glossy finish makes scratches more obvious.
  • Embossed or textured vinyl blends scratches into the pattern, making them less noticeable.
• Types of textured vinyl flooring:
  • Embossed-in-register (EIR) – Mimics natural wood or stone textures, helping to hide damage.
  • Wire-brushed or hand-scraped – Provides a slightly rougher surface that masks imperfections.
  • Matte finishes – Reduce glare, making scratches less visible compared to high-gloss finishes.

If your space is prone to frequent activity and potential surface wear, opting for textured vinyl flooring can help maintain a cleaner, well-kept appearance.

More Tips for Long-Lasting Vinyl Floors

Choosing scratch resistant vinyl flooring is a great first step, but proper maintenance plays a huge role in keeping your floors in top condition.

1. Add a Protective Floor Finish

Some commercial spaces apply an extra protective coating to high-traffic areas for added durability. Ask your flooring provider if this option is available for the vinyl flooring you choose.

2. Use Chair Mats and Protective Pads

• Rolling office chairs can wear down vinyl over time. A chair mat prevents this.
• Furniture pads on chair and table legs can stop scratches before they happen.

3. Keep High Heels and Hard-Soled Shoes Off the Floor When Possible

While vinyl is more durable than hardwood, sharp high heels and hard-soled shoes can still leave scuffs and small indentations. If possible, designate certain areas as high-heel-free zones or use protective mats where needed.

4. Clean with the Right Products

Even scratch-resistant flooring can wear down if cleaned with harsh chemicals or rough tools. Stick to:

• pH-neutral vinyl floor cleaners
• Microfiber mops
• Soft-bristle brooms

Avoid abrasive scrubbers, vacuum beater bars, and steam mops, as these can weaken the protective layers over time.

Final Thoughts: How to Protect Vinyl Flooring from Scratches

Taking care of your vinyl floors doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple steps—like using furniture pads, regular cleaning, and choosing scratch-resistant vinyl flooring—you can keep them looking new for years to come.

If you’re looking for durable, scratch-resistant vinyl flooring for your business, East Coast Flooring & Interiors has a wide range of high-quality options. Contact us today to find the best flooring solution for your commercial space!

This article was originally published on12/15/2020 and has been updated on 2/10/2025 to provide the most accurate and relevant information.