Winter brings a wonderland of snow and ice, but it also ushers in a host of challenges for maintaining commercial floors. From the slushy mess tracked in by visitors to the salt and grit that can wreak havoc on surfaces, winter demands special attention. But don’t worry, keeping your floors safe and pristine doesn’t have to be an uphill battle. With these expert tips, you’ll navigate the colder months with ease.

RELATED: Prepare for winter with a fall maintenance checklist

The importance of matting

Imagine you’re walking into your office on a snowy morning, and upon your arrival, you notice that the floors are already a mix of wet footprints and salt stains. That’s where walk-off mats come in, acting as the unsung heroes of winter floor care! Walk-off mats are your first line of defence as they trap dirt and moisture before they can spread throughout your facility, significantly reducing cleaning time and costs.

Cleaning industry professionals and ISSA research indicate that effective matting can prevent up to 80 per cent of dirt and moisture from infiltrating a building. Furthermore, studies show that without sufficient matting, nearly 42 per cent of a floor’s finish can be stripped away within the initial six feet of an entrance with traffic from just 1,500 individuals.

To use these mats effectively, place them at all entrances. Consider asking a professional for advice on their placement and size. Choose strong, high-quality mats for high-traffic areas. Clean them regularly to keep them working well. A quick vacuum or shake can make a big difference to their effectiveness and longevity.

Hard surfaces

Hard surface floors like tile, vinyl, and hardwood are particularly vulnerable to winter wear and tear. Snow, slush, and ice melter can leave behind scratches and stains if not managed properly. Consistent cleaning is key. Regular sweeping, mopping and vacuuming to remove dirt and debris is essential to prevent grime from being tracked through the building and ground into the floor, which can cause scratches. Professionals always recommend using a cleaner suited to your specific floor type, for hardwood, a damp mop with a specialized cleaner works best. For tile and vinyl, ensure you’re not leaving too much water behind as excess moisture can warp or dull the surface.

We all know winter is synonymous with slippery surfaces so applying a slip-resistant treatment can enhance safety and mitigate risk. It’s a small investment for peace of mind and ensures that employees and customers are less likely to have accidents.

Carpets

Unfortunately, carpets bear the brunt of winter’s harsh conditions. Snow, salt, and moisture can lead to significant wear and tear. Frequent vacuuming is crucial as it removes dirt that can scratch carpet fibres and dull colours.

Again, walk-off mats should be placed at entry points to catch debris. These mats act as a buffer, protecting the main carpet from the worst of the winter muck. Deep cleaning helps restore the pile of your carpet and removes trapped salt and dirt that can damage carpet fibres. A monthly carpet maintenance program should be considered to protect your carpet investment over the long term.

Professional cleaning

While regular cleaning and maintenance will go a long way, professional commercial cleaners offer comprehensive services to keep your floors in top shape with advanced cleaning techniques that deep clean and rejuvenate floors and carpets. For hard surfaces, strip and wax treatments maintain shine and slip resistance. This proactive approach extends the life of your flooring, saving money on costly replacement. With a commercial cleaning service, you can focus on running your business while experts ensure your floors look their best.

Cleaning equipment and supplies

It is vital to stay on top of maintaining your cleaning equipment. Ensure that vacuums, mops, and other cleaning tools are in good condition and are stored appropriately. This not only improves cleaning efficiency but also prevents damage to floors. Regular maintenance of your cleaning equipment is just as crucial as cleaning the floors themselves. A poorly maintained vacuum can lose suction and leave behind dirt, which can eventually damage your flooring.

Incorporating eco-friendly cleaning products is essential these days. These products are not only better for the environment and indoor air quality, but they are also gentler on your floors. Many commercial spaces are now opting for green cleaning solutions as they are effective in removing dirt and stains without the harsh chemicals that can degrade flooring materials over time.

Maintaining your floors

A hands-on approach throughout the winter will keep your floors looking great, lasting longer, and staying safe for foot traffic. Here are some additional tips to help you maintain your floors this winter:

1. Regular inspections: Frequently check your floors for any signs of damage or wear. Early detection can prevent more significant problems down the line and save money long-term.
2. Quick response: Address spills and tracked-in snow immediately. Quick action can prevent stains, water damage, and slips and falls.
3. Maintenance schedule: Establish a regular maintenance schedule with your commercial cleaners and stick to it. Consistency is crucial in keeping floors and carpets looking their best.
4. Deep clean: Plan for a deep cleaning session at the end of winter to address any accumulated dirt and salt residues that regular cleaning might miss. This helps in restoring the floors and carpets, preparing them for the upcoming seasons. An end-of-winter deep clean can be incredibly beneficial to reset your floors, removing any buildup that could cause long-term damage.

Winter floor care might seem daunting, but with the right strategies and a bit of expert advice, you can keep your commercial floors in excellent condition. From the first line of defence with walk-off mats to the specialized treatments offered by professionals, every step plays a vital role. A proactive approach not only ensures a clean and safe environment but also protects your investment for years to come. So, as you admire the winter wonderland outside, rest easy knowing your floors and carpet are well taken care of. After all, a well-maintained floor is the foundation of a welcoming and safe space.

Daniel Loosemore is Chief of Sales and Operations at ServiceMaster Clean and Restore Canada. He and his team support over 120 franchises, delivering commercial cleaning services and emergency disaster restoration services from coast to coast. To find out more about their commercial cleaning services, visit ServiceMasterClean.ca.