Hardwood floors are a sophisticated addition to any living space. However, they require some maintenance to help preserve their natural beauty and charm. This is especially true during the winter when the cold can cause the wood to warp. Here are a few tips to remember this season.

A Guide to Safeguarding Your Wood Flooring During the Winter

1. Use Rugs & Mats

By keeping rugs and mats near entrances, you create a line of defense against grime, mud, salt, and snow which might otherwise get tracked inside. Consider runners during the winter season to create a protected pathway in rooms with hardwood floors. You can also lay down area rugs, which have the added benefit of padding your flooring against furniture legs.

2. Sop Up Puddles

Never let snow or slush sit inside your home. Besides being a slip hazard, the moisture will warp and damage your wooden planks, permanently compromising your beautiful hardwood. Use a microfiber mop or cloth to clean the area rather than something more abrasive which can scratch the wood or damage the finish.

3. Sweep Regularly

Sweep up as often as you can. The salt and sand used to keep roads and sidewalks from freezing can cause small scratches along the floor’s surface. The tiny particles can also embed into your planks and leave behind a residue that is hard to clean.

4. Designate Areas for Winter Storage

Create a safe area where your family can remove winter coats, hats, gloves, and boots rather than letting these saturated seasonal pieces drip onto your hardwood floors. Consider adding cubbies near the entrance for children to store all of their gear. Add a shoe rack for boots and a rug or mat for catching moisture.

5. Maintain Humidity

Check humidity levels in your home. If they are constantly in flux, it will eventually warp the planks, leading to gaps between boards and uneven areas. In some cases, floorboards may even split or crack. Aim for 35 to 55% humidity inside your living space. 

Located in Lincoln, NE, for more than 50 years, Carl Bohlmeyer Floor Sanding is the premier contractor for homeowners looking to install hardwood floors or get theirs refinished. Locally-owned, their technicians utilize the best techniques and tools in the industry to guarantee flooring that is strong, durable, and beautiful. Call (402) 423-7225 for a free estimate or visit their website for more information.