Why Cold Weather Affects Your Floors
During the fall and winter, Oklahoma homes deal with:
● Dry indoor air, which can cause hardwood and laminate to shrink or crack
● Muddy shoes and wet boots, tracking in water and debris
● Salt and de-icers, which can scratch and stain floors
● Heavier indoor foot traffic, especially during the holidays
If you’ve got hardwood, vinyl, tile, or laminate, each reacts differently—but all benefit from a few seasonal adjustments.
Tips to Get Your Floors Winter-Ready
1. Use Entry Mats and Boot Trays
Place durable mats outside and inside every entrance to catch water, dirt, and salt.
● Add boot trays near doorways to contain messes
● Use machine-washable rugs in high-traffic zones like mudrooms and hallways
2. Manage Indoor Humidity
Cold air outside means your heating system will dry out the air inside.
● Use a humidifier to maintain 35–55% indoor humidity
● Helps prevent gapping and cracking in wood and laminate
● Great for comfort and indoor air quality, too
3. Clean Floors More Frequently
Winter messes pile up fast.
● Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove debris that can scratch surfaces
● Mop with a lightly damp microfiber mop (avoid too much water)
● Use floor-safe cleaners designed for your material type
4. Check for Drafts and Seal Gaps
Flooring near doors and windows can get cold and expand/contract with drafts.
● Seal gaps around door thresholds and baseboards
● Add weather stripping or door sweeps to keep warm air in
5. Rotate Rugs and Furniture
Shifting rugs and furniture every few months prevents uneven wear and fading—especially in sunny rooms or high-use areas.
Flooring Types and Their Cold Weather Needs
● Hardwood: Very sensitive to dry air—use a humidifier and avoid excess water during cleaning.
● Laminate: Can shrink or separate at seams in low humidity. Keep temperature and moisture levels consistent.
● Luxury Vinyl: Less reactive to temperature but still benefits from clean entryways and rugs.
● Tile: Handles cold well but grout lines can collect moisture or crack if exposed to extreme changes.
Oklahoma-Ready Flooring Solutions
If your floors are already showing signs of damage—or you’re ready to upgrade before the holidays—fall is a great time to schedule flooring work. At Soto Flooring, we offer a wide range of low-maintenance, winter-ready options like luxury vinyl plank, tile, and engineered hardwood.
We serve homes across Oklahoma City, Edmond, Norman, and Moore with expert installations and honest advice.
Final Thoughts
Your floors handle a lot during the colder months—from messy weather to extra houseguests. A few simple steps now can prevent costly repairs later and help keep your home warmer, cleaner, and more welcoming all winter long.
Need help getting your floors ready for the season?
Contact Soto Flooring today to schedule a free estimate or learn about weather-resistant
flooring options.
