Summer may be one of the most fun seasons of the year, but it also brings its own set of challenges when it comes to floor care. The heat and humidity can cause floors to expand and contract, leading to gaps and cracks in hardwood floors. Tracking in sand, dirt, and salt from beaches or roads after a fun day in the sun can damage floors and cause scratches. Additionally, the increased foot traffic during summer months (especially if you have children or like to have guests over for fun summer activities) can lead to a buildup of dirt and debris, which can damage floors if you don’t clean up properly.
Don’t fret. With a bit of care and diligence, you can keep your floors looking great all summer long regardless of what type of fun you’re having outside. Read on for our top summer floor care tips.
Hardwood Floor Care
Hardwood floors require special care all year round, and that doesn’t stop during the summer months. To keep your hardwood floors looking their best, you have to sweep or vacuum them regularly to remove dirt and debris that can scratch the finish or damage the wood. This is especially true during the time of year that you may be dragging sand in with you after a long day at the beach. Those tiny grains of sand can cause some serious damage before you know it!
When mopping up, use a hardwood floor cleaner and a microfiber mop to clean the floors without damaging the finish. You should make sure to dry spills immediately to prevent water damage. If you or someone else in your household tracks in water after a dip in the pool or ocean, wipe it up right away. Consider using a dehumidifier to reduce the moisture in the air, which can help prevent warping or buckling of the wood.
Tile Floor Maintenance
Tile floors are another popular option for homeowners, and they benefit from regular maintenance to keep them looking their best during the summer. Cool tile floors feel great on a hot summer day, but you need to keep them clean!
Sweeping or vacuuming tile floors regularly can help remove dirt and debris that can scratch the tile or grout (again, like sand). Use a tile and grout cleaner and a microfiber cloth or mop to clean the floors after any outdoor activities that lead to tracked-in dirt. Consider sealing your grout lines to protect them from stains and damage caused by summer foot traffic if you notice that it’s become a problem in the past.
Laminate Floor Care
Laminate floors are a cost-effective and durable alternative to hardwood floors, but they still require regular care to keep them looking their best during the summer. They stand up better to wear and tear than wood, but you shouldn’t get careless.
Sweeping or vacuuming laminate floors regularly can help remove anything that may scratch the surface. Laminate floors are more scratch-resistant than hardwood, but pesky sand and debris from outdoor activities can still cause damage. You should also mop floors regularly. Be sure to dry your floors thoroughly after mopping to prevent water spots.
Carpeted Floor Maintenance
Carpets can be a bit troublesome during this time of year. Carpeted floors require regular vacuuming to remove dirt and debris that can damage the carpet fibers. Summer foot traffic can lead to a buildup of dirt and debris, as well as a flattening of the carpet. It’s important to vacuum regularly if you want to keep your carpets clean and fluffy long-term and extend their lifespan.
Consider using a carpet rake to remove dirt that can accumulate in the carpet fibers, especially if you have pets that shed. You’ll be surprised at how much the carpet rake can pull up, even if the carpet otherwise looks clean! At the end of the summer season, consider using a carpet cleaner to deep clean your carpets and remove tough stains.
Preventing Summer Floor Damage
When possible, prevention is better than restoration. You don’t have to fix a problem if it never occurs in the first place. In addition to regular cleaning and maintenance, there are several preventative measures you can take to protect your floors during the summer.
Place mats or rugs at entrances to catch dirt and debris before they reach your floors (and encourage people to spend time wiping their shoes). If people are coming in from the pool, sprinkler, or ocean, have towels outside so they can dry off before stepping foot inside. You can also consider using area rugs or runners in high-traffic areas to protect your floors from damage.
If you’re someone that has a lot of guests during the summer, consider a “no shoes” policy or providing house slippers to reduce the number of shoes that track dirt onto your floor.
Keep Your Floors in Good Condition This Summer
Don’t let the summer fun in the sun ruin your floors! Keep them clean and well-maintained all season long. By following these tips and taking care of your floors, you can keep them looking their best for years to come. Whether you have hardwood, tile, laminate, or carpeted floors, a little maintenance can go a long way in preserving their beauty and extending their lifespan.
Are you in need of some brand new floors? At LA Carpet, we want to help you keep your home’s floors looking fantastic all year long, regardless of the season. Whether you’re ready to trade your old carpet for spectacular new hardwood or you want something more durable, like vinyl or laminate, we’re here to help. Reach out for a free estimate today.
