How to Maintain SPC LVT and Laminate Flooring Year Round Care Guide
Your flooring looks different in each season. Winter dryness, summer humidity, spring pollen, and fall dirt each affect your floor. This guide covers year round maintenance for SPC, LVT, and laminate.
Spring Maintenance
Spring brings pollen, mud, and melting snow tracked in from outside. Spring also has the largest humidity swings as weather changes.
Spring tasks:
1. Deep clean the entire floor. Sweep then damp mop
2. Check for winter damage. Look for scratches, edge wear, and joint separation
3. Remove winter salt residue from entry areas. Salt can dull the finish over time
4. Check humidity levels. Spring humidity can rise quickly. Use a dehumidifier if needed
5. Inspect door mats and replace if worn
For laminate: spring humidity increase can cause expansion. Check that expansion gaps are still clear.
Summer Maintenance
Summer brings high humidity, more foot traffic, and dirt from outdoor activities.
Summer tasks:
1. Vacuum more frequently if windows are open. Dust and pollen settle on floors
2. Wipe up spills immediately. Humidity slows evaporation
3. Place mats at every entry point to catch summer dirt
4. Use a dehumidifier in basements and ground floor rooms
5. Do not use air conditioning to dry wet floors. AC will not fix a wet floor quickly
For SPC: summer is the easiest season. SPC handles humidity changes well. Regular cleaning is sufficient.
Fall Maintenance
Fall brings falling leaves, rain, and preparation for winter holidays. Foot traffic increases as people spend more time indoors.
Fall tasks:
1. Remove fallen leaves from entry mats. Decaying leaves stain surfaces
2. Apply felt pads to new furniture purchased during fall sales
3. Check for scratches from summer activities. Repair before winter
4. Stock up on cleaning supplies for holiday entertaining
5. Place extra mats at entry doors for rainy days
For LVT: check for edge curling if humidity drops. Some LVT products contract in dry air.
Winter Maintenance
Winter is the toughest season for flooring. Dry indoor air, salt and snow tracked indoors, and closed windows reduce ventilation.
Winter tasks:
1. Use a humidifier to maintain 40 to 50 percent indoor humidity
2. Place a waterproof mat inside every exterior door for melting snow
3. Wipe wet shoes and boots on the mat. Do not walk on the floor with wet footwear
4. Increase vacuuming frequency. Winter grit is abrasive
5. Do not use steam mops. Dry air plus steam shock damages locking mechanisms
6. Check for gaps caused by dry air. Gaps may close when humidity returns
For laminate: winter dry air causes the most contraction. Gaps of 1mm are normal. Gaps over 2mm may need attention.
Year Round Don'ts
Do not use steam mops on any flooring type
Do not use bleach or ammonia based cleaners
Do not use wax or polish products
Do not drag furniture across any floor type
Do not allow standing water on any floor type
Do not use abrasive scrub pads or stiff brooms
Year Round Dos
Do sweep or vacuum daily
Do use a damp mop with manufacturer recommended cleaner
Do place mats at all entry points
Do use felt pads under furniture
Do trim pet nails regularly
Do clean spills immediately
About PROLEADER
PROLEADER provides maintenance guides specific to each flooring product. Contact us for cleaning product recommendations and warranty requirements.
