The outer layer of vinyl flooring is typically scratch-resistant, which means their claws can't scratch it up and their nails won't leave scratches when they get the zoomies. And, scratch-resistant flooring or not, it's always a good idea to trim your pet's nails so they stay comfortable.
For starters, vinyl is known for being a very durable material, you won't have to worry about it getting scratched by your dog's claws. It's relatively inexpensive compared to most other flooring types.
Luxury Vinyl
Vinyl flooring is durable, cost-effective and waterproof, making it an excellent choice for dog owners. Today's vinyl flooring options can replicate the look of genuine hardwood flooring and other natural materials like stone or tile, with the added benefit of being more scratch-resistant and long-lasting.
Vinyl planks and tile both work well with pets, as long as you go with some of the more luxurious or premium options that are available on the market—if you opt for the cheapest flooring available, you're probably going to end up with some damage to your flooring very quickly.
So, does LVP, or luxury vinyl plank, flooring scratch easily? On average, LVP flooring does not scratch or scuff easily, making it the perfect floor for pets and children. However, they can still roughen if you move heavy furniture without pads or a hidden nail under your belongings scratch the floors.
Will my luxury vinyl plank scratch? While Luxury Vinyl Plank is known for being durable, it can be damaged. Dull or scratched luxury vinyl flooring is unattractive, and will certainly ruin the illusion as well. Preventing scratches and maintaining the shine are therefore important parts in caring for your floor.
Luxury Vinyl Plank – Medium Scratch Resistant
Basically, the LVP proved to be more scratch resistant than the hardwood, but not more than the laminate.
First, deep clean the floor use liquid dishwashing soap and warm water to remove any sticky marks. Lightly sand the vinyl surface, vacuum clean to get rid of dust, and apply the scratch concealer. For deep scratches wax the floor and wipe any excess and allow it to completely dry.
Ease of cleaning, chances for scratches, traction, and moisture damage are all considerations in choosing the best flooring for homes with pets. Both laminate and luxury vinyl flooring are great choices but if the pet is prone to accidents, luxury vinyl is the way to go.
Now, remember, nothing is ever truly scratch-proof. If you gouge at your laminate, you'll eventually see marks. Dog nails, however, are not going to scratch laminate flooring like they would on natural hardwood. The worst thing you'll have to worry about is the muddy pawprints they leave on the floor.
Vinyl flooring is made from phthalates mixed with additives; plasticizers, stabilizers, pigments, and fillers. Phthalates are known toxins, exposing both humans and pets to the risk of asthma, cancer, kidney, lung, and even reproductive health problems.
Not really. Dogs could possibly cause some minor damage to hardwood floors, and in some cases, it will be more obvious than in others. For example, some people like the look of black hardwood floors, but they show scratches from dog nails more clearly than lighter floors.
Both flooring types are compatible with underfloor heating, although vinyl is slightly more efficient. Vinyl floors have the lowest thermal resistance of all Pergo flooring solutions and act as excellent thermal conductors.
Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt & grit that can scratch the floor and wipe up all spills promptly and thoroughly with a damp cloth or mop, washing with a mild detergent when needed. You can restore your floor's original gloss by vacuuming, washing & applying 2-3 coats of floor restoring polish.
Dishwashing Detergent, Water, and Vinegar – Mix dishwashing detergent, vinegar, and 1 gallon of water. Don't mix too vigorously, though, as you don't want to form any bubbles. Scrub the Stain – Being gentle is key here; if you scrub too hard, you'll damage your vinyl flooring.
Laminate and LVT/LVP flooring are both extremely durable, but they have their weaknesses. Laminate is prone to scratches and chipped corners over time, so vinyl is probably a better choice for your home if you have pets. LVT/LVP is scratch-resistant, but it's more vulnerable to denting and tearing.
If you have pets and kids causing a ruckus in the house, vinyl does not scratch easily, chip or suffer any kind of major damage that is going to make it look bad. Cleaning and maintenance of vinyl plank flooring is easy. Sweeping or vacuuming is all that's needed for daily maintenance.
LVT. They are made of the same polyvinyl chloride material, have similar performance qualities, score equally on durability and life span, are low maintenance and are easy and affordable to install. That said, LVP is the best choice if you are after a hardwood look for your floors.
Laminate flooring also wins out over vinyl when it comes to environmental sustainability. Vinyl is produced using petroleum, which isn't a renewable resource. Its production generates toxic chemicals.
LVP comes in a plank shape and often offers the look of real hardwood with realistic scraping or embossing. LVT comes in the traditional tile squares, features more stone and concrete looks, includes surface texture for a lifelike look, and can even be installed with grout.
The amount of time between nail trims depends on how quickly your dog's nails grow and how quickly they are worn down. The average dog should have his nails clipped every three to four weeks, but it should be done as often as needed to keep the nail from touching the ground when your dog is standing.
For Dogs Who Give Paw and Scratch
Simply, turn your back and ignore if you're standing or get up from the couch and leave if you're sitting. Request your guests do the same. Wear long sleeves and dress in layers to protect your skin.