How to Clean COREtec floors

COREtec floors are becoming one of the most common flooring choices in modern homes — and for good reason.
They’re durable, waterproof, and beautiful.

But here’s the problem many cleaning professionals face:
they look tough, yet they’re easy to damage if cleaned incorrectly.

Understanding what COREtec floors are made of is the key to cleaning them safely, efficiently, and professionally.

What Are COREtec Floors?

COREtec floors are luxury vinyl floors (LVP/LVT) designed with a rigid core construction that makes them far more stable than traditional vinyl.

They were developed to solve common flooring issues like:

• Warping from moisture

• Expansion and contraction

• Noise and discomfort underfoot

That’s why they’re now widely installed in:

• Kitchens

• Bathrooms

• Living areas

• Homes with pets and kids

What COREtec Floors Are Made Of (And Why It Matters)

COREtec floors are built in layers, each one serving a purpose:

1️⃣ Wear Layer

The top protective coating that resists scratches and stains.
This layer is durable but not invincible — harsh chemicals can dull or strip it over time.

2️⃣ Vinyl Design Layer

This is what gives COREtec its realistic wood or stone look.
Damage here is permanent and visible.

3️⃣ Rigid Core (SPC or WPC)

• SPC (Stone Polymer Core): very rigid, impact-resistant

• WPC (Wood Polymer Core): slightly softer, better comfort underfoot

Both are waterproof, but neither is designed for aggressive chemical cleaning.

4️⃣ Attached Underlayment

Many COREtec floors come with a built-in acoustic pad that improves sound and comfort.

Why this construction matters for cleaning:
COREtec floors are engineered for stability — not for harsh chemicals, abrasives, or residue buildup.

The Biggest Cleaning Mistake on COREtec Floors

Many cleaners assume:

“It’s waterproof, so I can clean it like tile.”

That’s where damage happens.

Common mistakes include:

• Acidic cleaners

• Strong alkaline degreasers

• Vinegar or ammonia

• Steam mops

• Leaving excess water on the floor

These don’t always cause immediate damage —
but over time, they dull the finish, leave haze, and shorten the life of the floor.

How COREtec Floors Should Be Cleaned (Professional Standard)

COREtec floors require a pH-neutral cleaner that:

• Lifts soil without attacking the wear layer

• Rinses clean

• Leaves no residue

• Is safe for daily or maintenance cleaning

Why SH-Clean Is the Right Solution

SH-Clean is a pH-neutral professional cleaner, which makes it ideal for COREtec floors because it:

 *Cleans without stripping the protective layer
 *Does not dull or haze the surface
 *Is safe for routine and maintenance cleaning
 *Works with minimal moisture
 *Leaves floors clean — not sticky

This is exactly what rigid-core vinyl floors need.

Best Practice: How to Clean COREtec Floors Step by Step

1️⃣ Dry removal first
Start by removing loose dirt and debris.
Vacuum or dust mop to eliminate grit that could scratch the surface during wet cleaning.

2️⃣ Apply a pH-neutral solution (SH-Clean)
Dilute SH-Clean at 40:1, which delivers excellent cleaning performance while significantly reducing product cost.
Apply using a well-wrung mop to avoid over-wetting the floor.

3️⃣ Let the floor dry naturally
No rinsing is required when using a true pH-neutral cleaner like SH-Clean.
This saves time, water, and labor while protecting the floor finish.

4️⃣ Educate the client
Explain why harsh or acidic products are not recommended for regular floor maintenance.
This builds trust, reinforces your expertise, and positions you as a professional who protects both the floor and the client’s investment.

Why Cleaning Businesses Should Care

COREtec floors are an investment for homeowners.
When a cleaner damages them, the liability is high.

Cleaning businesses that:

• Understand floor construction

• Use surface-appropriate chemistry

• Follow professional systems

…protect themselves and their clients.

Final Thought for Cleaning Professionals

COREtec floors don’t need stronger cleaning.
They need smarter cleaning.

Knowing what the floor is made of — and choosing the right product — is what separates routine cleaning from professional care.

Clean it right the first time, and the floor — and your reputation — will last longer.