To move furniture safely on vinyl plank flooring, always lift furniture rather than dragging it and use furniture sliders to protect the surface.
Vinyl plank flooring is durable but can be susceptible to scratches, dents, and scuffs from heavy or sharp objects being dragged across it. Protecting your floors during a move is essential to maintain their appearance and longevity.
Key Protection Strategies
The most important rule when moving furniture on vinyl plank is avoiding direct friction between the furniture legs or base and the floor surface.
Prioritize Lifting
As emphasized in the reference, the fundamental principle is: lift your furniture rather than dragging it across the floor. Dragging concentrates weight on small points (like chair legs or corners), significantly increasing the risk of scratching or gouging the vinyl planks. Always lift items clear off the floor before moving them, even short distances. For heavy or bulky pieces, enlist help to distribute the weight and ensure a clean lift.
Utilize Furniture Sliders
Using furniture sliders is another critical step. Whether you're moving a sofa or a bulky dining table, sliders will help distribute the weight evenly, reducing the risk of dents or scratches. Place sliders under the legs or corners of the furniture. These create a smooth surface that glides easily across the vinyl, minimizing friction and pressure on the floor.
Additional Protective Measures
Beyond lifting and sliders, consider these steps for maximum floor protection:
- Clear the Path: Before you start, remove any obstacles, rugs, or debris from the furniture's path to prevent tripping hazards or catching on something that could damage the floor.
- Use Protective Coverings: For extra heavy or awkward items, or during a large move, you can lay down temporary floor coverings like moving blankets, cardboard, or protective sheeting over the vinyl plank path. Ensure the covering is clean and free of grit.
- Disassemble When Possible: Break down large furniture pieces (like beds or tables) if possible. Moving smaller components is easier, safer, and less likely to cause floor damage.
- Soft Feet or Pads: Ensure furniture legs have soft felt pads or protectors installed before returning them to their final position. This prevents everyday movement from scratching the floor.
By combining lifting techniques with protective tools like sliders and pads, you can move furniture safely and effectively on your vinyl plank flooring without causing damage.
