Winter can be tough on your home, especially on hardwood floors. From tracked-in snow and salt stains to low humidity in your home, seasonal changes can cause damage to your hardwood floors. Here’s how to care for hardwood floors during the colder months to keep them looking their best.
Use Doormats and Rugs
We recommend placing high-quality doormats by each entrance to protect your floors from salt, dirt, and moisture. As suggested by The Spruce, a good doormat catches snow and debris, preventing them from being tracked inside.
Rugs in high-traffic areas offer extra protection and help prevent scratches.
Clean Up Moisture Quickly
Moisture, along with salt, snow, and rain, is one of the biggest threats to hardwood floors. Here’s a guide on how to effectively clean moisture off your hardwood floors:
Maintain Humidity Levels
Dry winter air can cause your hardwood floors to shrink or crack. Aim for indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% to maintain the best environment for your floors. Here are a few tips to help:
- Invest in a Hygrometer: A hygrometer is an inexpensive and effective tool for tracking fluctuations, ensuring you maintain the ideal range required. Keep your hygrometer near the center of your living space for the most accurate reading.
- Pay Attention in Winter: Cold winter air and heating systems dry out indoor air, making winter the most likely time for wood floors to be affected. During these months, consider adding a humidifier to your home to combat the dry air.
- Open Windows on Mild Days: On mild days, open windows to balance the indoor air with outdoor moisture. This can be especially helpful after storms when outdoor humidity may be higher.
- Consider a Dehumidifier (When Needed): While maintaining humidity is important, avoid over-humidifying, as excessive moisture can cause wood floors to swell. If humidity exceeds 55%, consider using a dehumidifier after heavy rain or fog to reduce the moisture content in your home.
Avoid Harsh Cleaners
Using harsh chemical cleaners can damage the finish of your hardwood floors. To protect your floors, it’s important to avoid certain products that can cause long-term damage. Some harmful offenders include:
- Vinegar-Based Products
- Glass Cleaning Products
- Ammonia-Based Products
- Soapy Water
- Bleach
For good alternatives, look for cleaners specifically designed for hardwood floors, such as Bona Hardwood cleaners, which are gentle and effective.
Protect with Furniture Pads
Place felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches and gouges. This is especially important during the holiday season when guests are coming over, and there’s more movement of furniture.
Regular Maintenance and Refinishing
Keep your floors looking new by periodically refinishing them. A new finish can protect the wood from moisture and daily wear. If you need a professional’s help, find a reputable flooring expert near you.
Below are some respected flooring companies operating in both Canada and the U.S.:
Canada
- Pantera Flooring
- Rosewood Flooring
- Oceans Flooring
- Value Wood Floors Ltd.
- Certified Flooring
United States
- Empire Today
- LL Flooring
- Luna Flooring
- Floor Coverings International
- Kerr Floors
By following these simple steps—such as using doormats, managing humidity, and avoiding harsh cleaners—you can ensure your floors stay in great condition throughout the season. If you need professional assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to reputable flooring experts in your city to ensure your floors stay protected year-round.
If you’re looking to upgrade your home or find a space that fits your lifestyle, give us a call today! Our agents at Zoocasa are here to help.
