How to Protect Your Floors This Summer
Summer is here, bringing sunshine, barbecues, and fun-filled activities. However, the summer heat and increased foot traffic can take a toll on your beautiful floors. At Footprints Floors in Hickory / Gastonia, we understand the importance of protecting your flooring investment. That's why we've put together some helpful tips to keep your floors looking their best all summer long. Whether you have vinyl, hardwood, or tile flooring, we've got you covered! Read on to learn more about protecting your floors this summer.
Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring is an excellent choice for summer because it is waterproof and highly durable. However, even with its outstanding resilience, it's essential to take some precautions to protect your vinyl floors from the summer elements. Here’s what we recommend:
- Use doormats. Place doormats at all entry points to trap dirt, sand, and moisture before they reach your vinyl floors. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of scratches and damage.
- Avoid direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause discoloration and fading. Consider closing curtains or blinds to block out the sun's rays during the brightest parts of the day.
- Protect furniture legs. To avoid scratches and scuffs, consider attaching felt pads or glides to the legs of your furniture. These protective pads create a barrier between the furniture and your vinyl floors, preventing potential damage.
Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood flooring adds warmth and elegance to any home. To keep your hardwood floors looking their best this summer, follow these guidelines:
- Control humidity levels. Excessive humidity can cause the hardwood to expand and contract, leading to warping or buckling. Use a dehumidifier to maintain optimal humidity levels in your home.
- Utilize area rugs. Strategically place area rugs in high-traffic areas and near entrances to protect your hardwood floors from dirt, sand, and moisture. Be sure to use rug pads to prevent any scratches or marks.
- Keep dirt, sand, and grime at bay. Regularly sweep or vacuum your hardwood floors to remove dirt, sand, and grime. These particles can act as abrasives and scratch the surface of your hardwood floors. By maintaining a clean environment, you'll help preserve the beauty and longevity of your floors.
Tile Flooring
Tile flooring is a popular choice for summer because it's durable and it stays cool, making it comfortable to walk on even in hot weather. Here's how to keep your tile floors looking their best:
- Clean regularly. Sweeping or vacuuming your tile floors regularly will help prevent dirt and debris from scratching the surface. Also, mop your floors with a mild, pH-neutral cleaner to maintain shine.
- Protect grout lines. Seal your tile grout lines to prevent stains and discoloration. Grout sealer creates a protective barrier, making it easier to clean up spills and reducing the risk of grout damage.
- Keep it dry. Moisture can seep into the grout lines and cause discoloration or even mold and mildew growth. After mopping your tile floors, ensure they dry completely. Consider using a microfiber mop or towel to remove excess moisture and prevent water from sitting on the surface..
Enjoy a Summer of Beautiful Floors
With these tips, you can protect your floors and enjoy a summer of beauty and durability. Remember, vinyl flooring is perfect for its waterproof and durable qualities, while hardwood adds elegance to any home. And if you want a cool and durable option, tile flooring is the way to go. Ready to update your flooring this summer? Trust Footprints Floors in Hickory / Gastonia to deliver outstanding results for all your flooring installation needs. From product selection to installation, we ensure a seamless process from start to finish. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and give your home the upgrade it deserves this summer!