Preparing Your Floors for Summer in Florida

Once the calendar turns to May, South Florida homeowners know exactly what to expect in the coming months! In addition to high heat, a tremendous amount of sunlight, and lots of humidity, our climate will experience plenty of rainfall throughout the warmest part of the year. Preparing your floors for the Florida summer is essential to keep them looking their best and prevent damage. Here’s a breakdown of the best ways to care for flooring in Florida summer, with helpful preventative measures, climate considerations, and cleaning procedures to follow:

Preventative Flooring Care for Florida Summers

Before the hottest portions of the Florida summer reaches us, take these preventative steps to have your floors ready:

• Use Doormats: Place mats at all entryways (both inside and outside) to trap dirt, sand, and moisture before they get tracked onto your floors. This simple step significantly reduces the risk of scratches and water damage.
• Consider a “No Shoes” Policy: Yes, this applies to flip-flops as wells! Encouraging everyone to remove their footwear at the door can significantly reduce the amount of dirt and debris tracked onto your floors.
• Use Rugs Strategically: Place moisture-resistant area rugs in high-traffic areas and near entryways to provide an extra layer of protection against dirt, moisture, and wear. For hardwood, use rug pads underneath to prevent scratches and allow for better airflow. Opt for breathable materials like cotton or jute in the summer to avoid trapping heat.
• Use Furniture Pads: If you are taking the new season as an opportunity to rearrange furniture, ensure that all furniture legs have protective felt pads to prevent scratches and dents when bumped or moved for get-togethers.

Flooring Considerations During Florida Summers

When the Florida summer is in full swing, you can take steps indoors to help mitigate the effects of the climate:

• Control Humidity Levels: Florida’s high humidity can cause various flooring issues. Use a dehumidifier to maintain a consistent humidity level in your home, ideally between 30% and 50%. Monitor humidity with a hygrometer. Ensure good airflow by opening windows on drier days and using exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms.
• Monitor for Warping & Gaps: Keep an eye out for signs of moisture damage like cupping, crowning (warping of planks), or significant gaps between planks. If you see any of these red flags, contact us to address these issues promptly!
• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to intense sunlight can cause discoloration and fading, especially in hardwood and vinyl floors. Use curtains, blinds, or UV-blocking window films during the brightest parts of the day. Rearrange furniture periodically to prevent uneven fading.

How to Care for Flooring During Florida Summers

The summer season is also a time for fun! After all, living close to beaches in South Florida is one of the greatest perks. Make sure to clean your floors routinely after a beach day, summer pool party, or summer barbeque:

• Clean Regularly: Sweep or vacuum your floors frequently to remove dirt, sand, and debris that can scratch the surface. For all floor types, use a soft-bristled broom or a vacuum with a floor-brush attachment to avoid scratches.
• Wipe Spills Immediately: Don’t let spills sit on your floors, especially hardwood. Blot up any liquids promptly with a clean, dry cloth to prevent absorption and potential damage.
• Damp Mop Carefully: When mopping, use a damp mop, not a soaking wet one. Follow up with a dry towel to remove any excess moisture. While vinyl floors are water-resistant, avoid letting standing water sit for extended periods, especially at seams.
• Protect Grout Lines: Seal any tile grout lines to prevent stains, discoloration, and water damage, and reapply sealant as needed. Especially in humid environments, ensure tile floors are dried after cleaning to prevent moisture buildup in grout lines.

By following these summer flooring tips, you can effectively prepare and maintain your stunning surfaces all season long. If you have any other Florida flooring questions, make sure to visit the experts in one of our locations for more helpful guidance!