Summer Floor Care: Keep Your Floors Looking Stunning

Introduction

Summer is a wonderful time for family gatherings, barbecues, and outdoor fun, but it can also bring challenges for maintaining the beauty of your floors. Whether you have engineered wood, solid wood, or luxury vinyl tile (LVT) flooring, each type requires specific care to ensure it stays in top condition. Let’s explore the best practices for summer floor care to keep your home looking stunning all season long.

Engineered Wood Flooring

Maintaining Moisture Levels

Engineered wood flooring is a popular choice for many homes due to its durability and resistance to changes in temperature and humidity. However, summer’s high humidity can still cause some issues. It’s essential to keep indoor humidity levels between 45% and 55% to prevent the wood from warping or swelling. Using a dehumidifier can help maintain the ideal conditions.

Regular Cleaning Routine

For engineered wood floors, regular sweeping or vacuuming is crucial to remove dirt and debris that can cause scratches. A damp mop with a gentle wood floor cleaner will help keep the surface clean without damaging the finish. Remember to dry the floor thoroughly after mopping to prevent moisture from seeping into the wood.

Protect from Sunlight

Sunlight can cause engineered wood to fade over time. Using curtains, blinds, or UV-protective window films can help shield your floors from direct sunlight. Rearranging furniture periodically can also prevent uneven fading.

Solid Wood Flooring

Seasonal Expansion and Contraction

Solid wood floors are more susceptible to changes in humidity, expanding in the summer and contracting in the winter. To minimise these effects, maintaining consistent indoor humidity levels is vital. Use a humidifier or dehumidifier as needed to keep the environment stable.

Preventing Scratches and Scuffs

With children and pets running around during summer holidays, scratches and scuffs can be a common issue. Placing mats at entryways and using rugs in high-traffic areas can protect your solid wood floors. Ensure that furniture has protective pads to avoid damage when moved.

Deep Cleaning and Polishing

Solid wood floors benefit from periodic deep cleaning and polishing. Using a wood-specific cleaner and a microfiber mop, you can remove dirt and grime that regular cleaning might miss. Polishing your floors once or twice a year will help maintain their lustre and provide an extra layer of protection against wear and tear.

Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) Flooring

Resilient and Low Maintenance

LVT flooring is known for its durability and ease of maintenance, making it an excellent choice for busy households. It’s resistant to moisture, which is particularly useful during the humid summer months. Regular sweeping and mopping with a mild cleaner will keep your LVT floors looking pristine.

Preventing Sun Damage

Although LVT is more resistant to fading than wood, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can still cause discoloration. Using window coverings or UV-protective films can help preserve the vibrant look of your LVT flooring.

Handling Spills and Stains

Summer often means more spills from icy drinks and barbecues. Fortunately, LVT is stain-resistant, but it’s best to clean up spills promptly. A gentle cleaner and a soft cloth are usually enough to remove any marks. For tougher stains, a mixture of water and baking soda can be effective.

Conclusion

Taking care of your floors during the summer doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these simple tips, you can keep your engineered wood, solid wood, and LVT flooring looking beautiful and extend their lifespan. Remember, a little effort goes a long way in maintaining the luxury, design, and quality that FlooringHub.co.uk is known for.

Enjoy your summer, and look out for our next blog post for more home care tips!