Ohio’s 2024-2025 Winter: How Northeast Ohio’s Harsh Weather Has Impacted Commercial Floors & How to Restore Them

Northeast Ohio is no stranger to harsh winters, but the 2024-2025 season has been particularly tough. With heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, and constant ice buildup, commercial buildings have taken a beating — and so have their floors. From salt stains to moisture damage, winter can leave your business's flooring looking worn and unkempt. But don’t worry — MCS Building Solutions has the expertise to bring them back to life.

How Winter Weather Impacts Commercial Floors

1. Moisture and Water Damage
As snow and ice get tracked indoors, the excess moisture can seep into flooring materials, leading to warping, bubbling, and even mold growth. If left unchecked, this can weaken flooring and create hazardous conditions for employees and visitors.

2. Salt and Chemical Residue
To combat slippery sidewalks, businesses and municipalities use salt and de-icing chemicals. While these solutions keep roads and walkways safe, they can wreak havoc on floors. Salt leaves behind a white, chalky residue that dulls surfaces, while certain de-icers can cause discoloration and deterioration of floor coatings.

3. Scratches and Abrasion
Rock salt, sand, and debris get trapped in shoes and dragged inside, creating a sandpaper effect that can scratch and wear down flooring over time. High-traffic areas are especially vulnerable, leading to dull and damaged floors before winter even ends.

4. Increased Wear and Tear
With people bundling up for the cold, winter means heavier foot traffic in commercial spaces. Wet boots, rolling carts, and extra layers of dirt accelerate the breakdown of floor finishes, requiring more frequent maintenance to keep them looking professional.

How to Restore and Protect Your Floors

1. Deep Cleaning and Stain Removal
The first step in restoring winter-worn floors is a thorough deep cleaning. Professional cleaning removes salt stains, chemical residues, and embedded dirt, bringing back the original look of your floors.

• For carpets, a hot water extraction method lifts dirt and salt without damaging fibers.
• Hard floors like tile, vinyl, and concrete benefit from machine scrubbing and neutralizing cleaners.
• Wood floors require careful cleaning to prevent excess moisture from seeping into the grain.

2. Strip and Refinish Hard Floors
If your floors have lost their shine or have visible damage, stripping and refinishing is the best solution. This process removes old, worn-out coatings and applies a fresh layer of protective finish. It not only restores the floor’s appearance but also adds durability to withstand future wear and tear.

3. Professional Carpet Cleaning
Winter takes a toll on carpets, leaving them looking dull and dirty. Deep carpet cleaning eliminates salt, dirt, and allergens that have built up over the season, helping to extend the life of your carpets while improving indoor air quality.

4. Preventative Measures for Next Winter
While restoring your floors is crucial, preventing damage next season can save you time and money. Here’s how:

• Use High-Quality Entrance Mats: Placing durable mats at every entrance reduces the amount of moisture and debris tracked indoors.
• Regular Maintenance Schedule: Frequent cleaning throughout the winter prevents buildup and extends the life of your flooring.
• Apply Floor Sealants: Protective coatings on hard floors act as a barrier against salt, water, and heavy traffic.

Let MCS Building Solutions Help
Winter may be harsh on floors, but with the right care, they can be restored to their best condition. At MCS Building Solutions, we specialize in deep cleaning, floor restoration, and preventative maintenance to keep your commercial space looking professional all year long.

Ready to refresh your floors after winter? Contact us today to schedule a consultation!