Scratch Resistance Part Two
amrit.p • October 26, 2020
Part two in a series on Scratch Resistance
Scratch-resistant does not mean scratch-proof. Scratch resistance is just a resistance to scratching like water resistance repels water. Just as water-resistant does not mean waterproof, it is slightly different from water resistance in that fabric gets wet, and floors remain rigid. Scratch resistance is often measured in MIL thickness of the wear layer. Floors for Less carries nothing less than a 12 MIL wear layer, which in scratch resistance terms means light commercial use. The floors available at Floors for Less should withstand anything the people and pets in your home can dish out. Nothing is scratch-proof as shown by this blog. Even concrete and ceramic tile will scratch, but with that being said, Floors for Less will be able to help you determine the best possible flooring for your project.
CHILDREN:
Toddlers especially are rough on floors. There are toys that they walk behind that could scratch a surface, and there are blocks and other toys that they pound on the floor. Older children are just as hard on surfaces, and we guarantee that a 12 MIL wear layer can withstand what your children can dish out. Depending on the color of the flooring you choose, we can go over the guarantees for pets and damage.
PETS:
We could have never imagined the shelter in place warning from 2020, where so many pets were unable to get to the groomers and get their nails trimmed. The floors that Floors for Less sells were able to withstand the long nails of many pets. The nails on the floors were not damaging. It was an unimaginable time, but the floors were able to stand up to the test.
CHAIRS:
The rolling chairs in offices are very damaging to floors, but not the floors that Floors For Less
sells. The wear layer of the floors in our showroom can withstand the constant barrage of rolling chairs and the constant shuffle of dining room chairs. The wear layer of 12 MIL keeps the floor rigid and stable, and scratch-resistant. If you have chairs in the basement that teenagers are rolling around on, you will not need to worry about scratching from repetitive motion. The 12 MIL wear layer is a commercial grade, so it is prone to heavy foot traffic.
Scratch resistance is a common term with a wide variety of protection. Floors for Less will not chance what can happen in your place of residence, so the only floors on our showroom floor offer the protection of commercial-grade flooring. We have extreme scratch resistance
available in our Dynasty line of flooring, and that is a heavier commercial grade flooring. You can trust Floors for Less to look out for your flooring needs. We will only sell you what we think will work in your home. You pick the color, and we will go from there.
Upgrade your flooring today with engineered hardwood and enjoy a stylish, long-lasting solution tailored for Madison’s climate!
Stay ahead of the trends this winter by upgrading your flooring with stylish and practical options that suit Madison’s climate.
Madison, WI, experiences a challenging freeze-thaw cycle during the winter months, which can take a toll on your flooring. Fluctuating temperatures and moisture can cause floors to expand, contract, and even warp if not properly prepared. Here’s how to protect your floors and ensure they withstand Madison’s winter conditions.  Understand the Freeze-Thaw Cycle’s Impact on Flooring The freeze-thaw cycle refers to the repeated freezing and thawing of moisture in and around your home. This cycle can: Cause hardwood floors to expand and contract, leading to gaps or buckling. Lead to moisture seeping into tile grout, causing cracks or loosening tiles. Result in water damage to carpets and other porous flooring materials. Steps to Prepare Your Floors 1. Seal Hardwood Floors Sealing hardwood floors helps prevent moisture from penetrating the wood. A high-quality sealant acts as a barrier, reducing the risk of warping or swelling during temperature changes. 2. Use Floor Mats and Rugs Place floor mats at entryways to trap snow, salt, and moisture brought in from outside. Adding rugs in high-traffic areas can provide an extra layer of protection for your floors. 3. Maintain Humidity Levels Use a humidifier to keep indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%. This prevents hardwood floors from drying out or expanding due to excess moisture. 4. Clean Regularly Dust and debris can scratch floors and make them more susceptible to damage. Sweep, vacuum, and mop floors regularly with appropriate cleaning solutions to maintain their integrity. 5. Inspect and Repair Grout For tiled floors, check the grout for cracks or signs of wear. Repairing damaged grout prevents water from seeping beneath the tiles, which can cause lifting or cracking during freeze-thaw cycles . 6. Apply Waterproofing Solutions For areas prone to moisture, such as basements or mudrooms, consider applying a waterproofing solution to your floors. This added protection minimizes water-related damage. 7. Use Non-Slip Rugs and Pads Winter can make floors slippery, increasing the risk of accidents. Use non-slip rugs and pads to enhance safety while protecting your floors. Benefits of Preparing Your Floors Longevity : Proper preparation extends the lifespan of your flooring. Cost Savings : Avoid costly repairs or replacements caused by winter damage. Enhanced Comfort : Well-maintained floors contribute to a warm and inviting home environment. To explore durable and winter-ready flooring options, visit Floors for Less. Let us help you find the perfect solution for Madison’s challenging winters. FAQs About Protecting Floors During Freeze-Thaw Cycles What is the freeze-thaw cycle? It refers to the repeated freezing and thawing of moisture during winter months. How does the freeze-thaw cycle affect hardwood floors? It can cause expansion, contraction, and warping if floors are not properly prepared. What type of flooring is best for freeze-thaw conditions? Hardwood with proper sealing, waterproof tiles, and moisture-resistant materials work best. How can I prevent moisture damage to my floors? Use sealants, waterproofing solutions, and maintain proper humidity levels indoors. Should I use rugs during winter? Yes, rugs protect floors from scratches, moisture, and salt brought in from outside. How often should I inspect my floors in winter? Regularly check for signs of damage, especially after extreme weather changes. Are waterproof flooring solutions worth it? Yes, they provide added protection against water damage and are ideal for high-moisture areas. Preparing your hardwood floors for Madison freeze-thaw cycle is essential to protect your investment and ensure your home remains cozy and safe throughout the winter. Contact Floors for Less today for expert advice and premium flooring solutions!
