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How to Protect Hardwood Floors During Winter
Pro Floors • December 3, 2024
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Winter in Minnesota is a magical season, with snow-covered landscapes and festive cheer. However, it can also pose significant challenges for maintaining the beauty and durability of hardwood floors. The cold weather, snow, salt, and dry indoor air can all conspire to damage your floors if not properly managed. To ensure your hardwood floors withstand the rigors of winter, it's essential to adopt a proactive approach to protection and maintenance.
The Impact of Winter on Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors are a popular choice for their elegance and timeless appeal. However, they are also sensitive to environmental changes, particularly during winter. Snow and ice brought in from outside can melt into water, seeping into the wood and causing stains, swelling, or warping. Additionally, the salt and sand used for de-icing roads can act as abrasives, scratching the floor’s surface and dulling its finish.
Another challenge is the dry indoor air caused by heating systems. Low humidity levels can lead to wood contraction, creating gaps between the planks. Over time, this can compromise the structural integrity of your floors, making them look uneven and less appealing. Understanding these risks is the first step toward protecting your investment.
Creating a Barrier Against Winter Elements
Entryway Mats and Rugs:
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect your hardwood floors is by using mats and rugs at entry points. Placing a high-quality doormat outside can help reduce the amount of snow and dirt brought inside. Inside the entryway, an absorbent rug can capture residual moisture, preventing it from spreading across your floor.
When choosing rugs, opt for ones with a non-slip rubber backing to ensure safety while protecting your floors. However, make sure the backing material won't discolor or damage the hardwood. Regularly clean and dry these mats to maintain their effectiveness.
Shoes Off Policy:
Implementing a “no shoes indoors” rule can significantly reduce the wear and tear on your hardwood floors during winter. Boots and shoes carry salt, sand, and water that can cause scratches and stains. Providing a designated area for removing shoes, complete with a boot tray to catch melting snow, can keep your floors safer and cleaner.
Managing Moisture and Humidity
Keeping Floors Dry:
Water is one of the biggest enemies of hardwood floors, especially during winter. Any snow or ice tracked inside should be wiped up immediately to prevent moisture from penetrating the wood. Use a soft, dry cloth to absorb water and check entryways and windows regularly for signs of moisture.
Using a Humidifier:
While it’s crucial to keep water off the surface of your hardwood floors, maintaining proper humidity levels in your home is equally important. During winter, indoor humidity often drops below the optimal range of 30-50% due to heating systems. This can cause the wood to dry out and shrink, resulting in cracks and gaps.
Investing in a humidifier can help stabilize humidity levels, protecting your hardwood floors and creating a more comfortable living environment. Portable humidifiers work well for single rooms, while whole-house systems offer consistent humidity throughout your home.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular Cleaning:
Frequent cleaning during winter is essential to remove abrasive particles like salt and sand. Sweeping or vacuuming with a soft-bristle attachment can prevent these particles from scratching the floor. Avoid traditional wet mopping, as excess water can damage the wood. Instead, use a damp microfiber mop for spot cleaning, ensuring you dry the floor immediately afterward.
Dealing with Salt Residue:
Salt is a common culprit for winter floor damage. It can leave unsightly white stains on hardwood and dull its finish over time. To remove salt residue, use a damp microfiber cloth followed by a dry one to ensure no moisture is left behind. For stubborn stains, consider using a hardwood floor cleaner specifically designed for winter care.
Adding Extra Protection
Applying a Protective Finish:
Adding a fresh coat of protective finish to your hardwood floors before winter can serve as an additional barrier against moisture, scratches, and stains. Polyurethane finishes are particularly effective, as they create a hard, durable surface that can withstand heavy foot traffic.
If your floors already have a finish, consider buffing and reapplying a maintenance coat. This process rejuvenates the existing finish, providing renewed protection without the need for a full refinishing job.
Using Furniture Pads:
Winter often means spending more time indoors, which can lead to increased movement of furniture. To prevent scratches caused by shifting furniture, attach felt pads to the bottoms of chairs, tables, and other items. These pads are inexpensive and easy to apply, offering a simple way to protect your floors from damage.
Winter Flooring Do's and Don’ts
Do: Monitor your home’s humidity levels and adjust as needed.
Don’t: Use harsh cleaning products or tools that can damage the floor’s finish.
Do: Check entryways for moisture and clean up spills immediately.
Don’t: Drag heavy furniture across the floor without protection.
Planning for Professional Maintenance
While regular cleaning and care go a long way, professional maintenance can provide your hardwood floors with a deeper level of protection. At Pro Floors Inc., we offer services such as refinishing, repairs, and inspections to ensure your floors are winter-ready. Our experts can identify potential issues and recommend solutions tailored to your home’s specific needs.
Conclusion
Winter doesn’t have to be a time of worry for your hardwood floors. By taking preventive measures like using rugs, maintaining proper humidity, and keeping floors clean and dry, you can enjoy the season without compromising the beauty of your floors. With the right care and occasional professional maintenance, your hardwood floors will continue to shine year after year, no matter how harsh the Minnesota winter gets.
If you’re looking for expert advice or services, Pro Floors Inc. is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can protect and enhance your hardwood floors.
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