Despite its reputation for durability, luxury vinyl plank flooring can be severely degraded by certain environmental factors and cleaning methods. Using harsh chemical solvents, abrasive scouring pads, ammonia, or traditional steam mops can strip the protective wear layer and melt underlying adhesives. Prolonged exposure to standing water leaking through unsealed seams can warp the core, while intense, direct sunlight streaming through unshaded windows can cause fading, shrinkage, and thermal buckling over time.