Rubber is a great choice for floors. It is strong, comfy to walk on, and does not make you slip. If you are thinking of rubber flooring, it costs a lot, but if you look after them right, they’ll stay good for a long time.
Knowing how to clean and take care of your floors might seem small, but it’s really important. If you learn about rubber and make special care plans upfront, you will not harm the rubber. Plus, it will be easier and save you money in the long run. In this article, I will share some tips to help you do the same.
Simplifying Floor Maintenance Planning
When it comes to rubber flooring mats, it is important to have a plan before installation. Creating a customized care and maintenance plan is key. You will need to consider a few things: the type of rubber, how much foot traffic it will endure, the weather conditions, and your budget for maintenance. Your plan should adapt to these factors, even changing with the seasons.
For instance, winter can be tough on floors. These can make your floors dirtier and, if not handled properly, can damage the rubber. So, it is essential to adjust your cleaning methods as conditions change.
Things you should keep in mind when installing rubber floors:
Entryways
Firstly, when you are setting up rubber flooring, it is important to consider the dirt and debris that can mess up your floor. To tackle this issue, we recommend using custom-made entryway systems. These systems are designed to minimize the dirt and debris brought into your facility.
The choice of entryway system depends on factors like the amount and type of dirt expected, as well as the level of foot traffic.
While some customers consider buying or renting their entryway mats, often referred to as “walk-off mats,” there are some downsides to this approach. These mats can pose tripping hazards, tend to shift from their intended position, aren’t always in the path of foot traffic, and can even cause discoloration on the floor beneath them.
Rubber Contains Its Natural Wax
Rubber has a unique quality – it has its natural wax that slowly moves to the surface over time. This means you don’t need to apply extra wax to rubber floors. With proper care, you can preserve the floor’s appearance throughout its use in your facility.
To maintain floors, especially those with different textures, microfiber pads on an auto scrubber work well. They not only keep the rubber clean but also help maintain the wax’s movement. However, some cleaners can harm this natural wax. For instance, if your facility deals with grease or oil, and you need to use a degreaser for cleaning, it might break down the rubber’s natural wax.
Cleaning Rubber Floors
Let’s talk about cleaning agents first. Disinfectants have become quite common on rubber floors, especially due to COVID-19. They’re designed to leave a residue on the floor, which helps kill bacteria and microorganisms over time. While this is good for health, it can create a hazy look on the floor over time. To maintain the floor’s appearance, it’s essential to regularly remove this disinfectant residue. You can do this with just water or a mild cleaner.
You do not need complex chemicals to keep rubber floors clean. We recommend using a mild cleaner with a pH level of around 7 or 8 mixed with warm water, or simply warm water on its own. Sometimes, all you need to do is wet the surface to reactivate any residue on the floor and get rid of dirt easily.
Using the Right Cleaning Pads
Cleaning pads play a crucial role when it comes to auto scrubbers, mops, and various cleaning tools. They directly interact with the floor surface. The choice of cleaning pad depends on the type of rubber flooring and how intense the cleaning task is.
In some cases, alternative pads are suggested, especially for deep cleaning. However, in most situations, microfiber pads prove to be the top choice. While a standard flat pad might work well on smooth surfaces, it falls short on textured or embossed rubber floors and areas with noticeable seams and transitions.
Using Felt Pads and Chair Glides
In addition, we suggest using felt pads to protect the rubber flooring wherever it meets any surface. When tables and chairs have felt pads on their feet, it prevents any unwanted marks or damage that might happen when you move furniture on the rubber flooring. Including these pads in your maintenance routine is crucial for long-lasting results. Make sure to get and use these felt pads before your floor installation.
Discover the perfect flooring solution for your space with Sarina Flooring and get started on your rubber flooring project now!
Conclusion
Rubber is a high-quality product that is worth the investment. With proper care, it can last a long time in your facility. Before buying, assess the area, choose a good entryway system for cleaning, and create a plan for maintaining the rubber and surrounding areas to meet your expectations.
Customers benefit greatly when they review our maintenance guidelines and seek our assistance in developing the right cleaning methods. Whether you’re planning to install rubber flooring or already have it, do not hesitate to reach out to Sarina Flooring. We’re here to assist you!
