Old man winter has a way of disturbing many different aspects of our life, but there is one aspect you might not have thought of… your flooring! Winter floor maintenance is just as important as any other seasonal floor maintenance. Snow, slush, salt/de-icer, cold air, etc… can affect your flooring, depending on what you have in different ways. We’ll give you a rundown of what to expect and how to prepare!
Winter Floor Maintenance for Hard Wood
Wood responds to changing temperatures and humidity just like we do. It even prefers the same temperature range (65–75℉) and relative humidity (35–55%) as us! When you have solid hardwood flooring, the planks will actually shrink in response to colder temperatures. That’s why you may hear a lot of popping and cracking now and then during the season.
Be careful though, because cranking your furnace won’t fix the issue! In fact, it can make it worse. Think of the wooden planks like your skin; dry air means dry skin. The same thing happens with wood flooring, which can create gaps in the planks. Watch your thermostat closely. If your humidity level drops below 35%, you will need to add some humidity. There is an easy fix for the planks and your skin! Adding a humidifier (either standalone or built-in) will bring in some much-needed moisture.
Not only do you have to worry about the planks shrinking, they can also get scratched! Make sure you have mats at every entrance door of your home so road salt and extra moisture aren’t tracked in. Even better, have a no-shoes policy at the door! Your floors and your health will thank you!
Winter Floor Maintenance for Carpet
Carpet can be cozier when temperature drops, but can have some problems you might have never thought about. Dry heated air can lead to static cling and shocks when you’re shuffling around in those fuzzy socks you got for Christmas. The worst fibers for this are synthetics and wool. Cut down on the static by wearing more cotton. Add more humidity if levels get too low. Dryer sheets also help balance out the electrons in your clothes.
Just like with hardwood floors, you want to keep doorway mats on deck to get rid of the deicer and road salt on your shoes. These items can stain and even bleach your carpet. Did you know, they also can be hazardous to pets. Leave those shoes at the door!
Winter Floor Maintenance for Tile
Tile flooring is usually a great bet for the winter! They are not only resistant to water, but they can also repel grease and grime easily. They are great at withstanding extreme temperatures and tile floors also are pretty good at resisting etching by salt. The only thing we urge you to watch is the grout. Grout can be easily stained and damaged any time of the year. You will want to get them sealed!
Bottom Line for Winter Floor Maintenance
We hope these tips help you in discovering how to take the best care of your floors, no matter what kind you may have. Treat them right and they will look nice for many winters to come.
Speaking of treating your floors right, have you had them serviced lately? Giving your floors a deep clean will not only bring back their original beauty, it will also help keep your house allergy and dirt free! Contact Olmec Reflections today and schedule a floor cleaning today! Here’s to your health and the health of your floors in 2022!