How to Clean and Maintain Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring in Edmonton
One of the best things about luxury vinyl plank flooring is how little effort it takes to keep looking great. But “low maintenance” doesn’t mean “no maintenance” — and there are a few things that are specific to Edmonton’s climate that every LVP owner should know. This guide covers everything you need to keep your floors in top shape year-round.
The Basics: Your Regular Cleaning Routine
A simple, consistent routine is all your LVP floor needs. Here’s what that looks like:
Daily or Every Few Days
Sweep, dust mop, or vacuum to remove dirt, grit, and pet hair. This is the single most important thing you can do for your floor. Grit and sand act like sandpaper on the wear layer — left on the floor, they gradually dull the finish and create micro-scratches that accumulate over time. A quick sweep takes two minutes and makes a real difference in how long your floor stays looking new.
If vacuuming, use a hard floor setting or turn off the beater bar — rotating brushes can scratch the surface.
Weekly
Damp mop with a pH-neutral floor cleaner diluted in water. Wring the mop out well — you want it damp, not wet. Excessive water pooling on the floor and seeping into seams can cause issues over time, even with a waterproof product.
Good cleaner options include products specifically labelled for vinyl or LVP floors. Avoid anything with wax, oil soap, or abrasive particles — these can leave a residue that dulls the finish or damages the wear layer.
As Needed
Wipe up spills promptly with a damp cloth. Even though LVP is waterproof, letting liquids sit — especially anything acidic like juice or wine — can eventually affect the finish. Pet accidents should be cleaned up and the area wiped down with a mild cleaner to prevent odour.
What to Avoid
A few common cleaning habits that can actually harm your LVP floor:
- Steam mops — the heat can warp planks, loosen attached underlayment, and void your warranty. Don’t use them on LVP, ever
- Wax or polish products — LVP has a built-in wear layer that doesn’t need waxing. These products leave a dulling residue that’s hard to remove
- Vinegar or bleach solutions — acidic or harsh cleaners can break down the wear layer finish over time
- Wet mopping — too much water near seams and edges can get beneath the planks and cause issues with the subfloor
- Abrasive scrubbers — scratch pads and steel wool will damage the surface
Edmonton-Specific Maintenance Tips
Living in Edmonton means your LVP floors face some specific seasonal challenges. Here’s how to handle them:
Winter: Ice Melt and Salt
This is the big one. Ice melt and road salt tracked in on boots and paws are abrasive and can dull your floor’s finish over a season or two. The fix is straightforward: place high-quality absorbent mats at every exterior entry point. Shake or wash them regularly through winter so they’re actually doing their job. Wipe down the floor near entryways more frequently during the worst months — November through March.
Winter: Dry Air
Edmonton winters are notoriously dry, and indoor humidity can drop very low when heating systems run continuously. While LVP handles low humidity far better than hardwood, extremely dry conditions can cause minor shrinkage or gaps at seams in some products. Maintaining indoor humidity between 35–55% with a humidifier is good for your floors, your woodwork, and your family’s comfort.
Spring: Mud Season
The spring thaw brings mud, and lots of it. A good boot mat outside the door and a second mat just inside goes a long way. Increase your sweeping frequency during these weeks — mud dries into grit, and grit on the floor is the enemy of your wear layer.
Protecting Your Floor From Furniture and Scratch Damage
- Put felt pads under all furniture legs — chairs, tables, sofas, bed frames. Replace them when they wear down
- Use furniture coasters under heavy pieces like refrigerators or sofas to distribute the weight and prevent indentation
- When moving furniture, lift don’t drag — even a short drag across the floor can leave a visible scratch
- Place area rugs in high-traffic zones like hallways and living areas — they add style and protect the floor underneath
- Keep pet nails trimmed — this makes more difference than most people expect
Dealing With Scuffs and Minor Damage
Scuff marks from shoes or furniture can often be removed with a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a soft cloth — test in an inconspicuous area first. For minor surface scratches, some manufacturers offer touch-up kits that blend into the floor’s finish.
Deep scratches that go through the wear layer can’t be repaired — but with LVP’s click-lock system, individual planks can often be replaced without tearing up the whole floor. This is one of the practical advantages of a floating LVP installation over glued-down products.
How Long Will Your LVP Floor Last?
A quality LVP floor, properly installed and well maintained, should last 20–25 years in a residential setting. The wear layer thickness is the biggest factor in longevity — a 20 mil wear layer will outlast a 6 mil one significantly in a busy household.
Following the simple routine in this guide goes a long way toward getting the maximum life out of your investment.
Questions About Your LVP Floor?
If you’re noticing unusual wear, persistent issues, or just want advice on the best products for your specific floor, our team at LCF Flooring is always happy to help. Contact us or stop by our Edmonton showroom.
And if you’re still in the research phase, check out our complete guide to LVP flooring in Edmonton and our post on how to choose the best LVP for your home.