Wisconsin winters are no joke. With icy temperatures, heavy snowfalls, and plenty of road salt, winter can take a severe toll on commercial and industrial flooring. For business owners and facilities managers, protecting floors during these months is essential—not only to maintain cleanliness but also to preserve the long-term condition of your flooring. Here’s a look at how Wisconsin’s winter conditions affect commercial floors and some practical solutions to keep them in top shape.


How Winter Conditions Affect Commercial Floors


Winter weather introduces a unique set of challenges for flooring in high-traffic commercial spaces:


  • Salt and De-icing Chemicals - Salt is one of the primary winter culprits that harm flooring. While essential for melting ice on sidewalks and parking lots, salt can be abrasive to floor surfaces and leave behind a tough residue to remove. Over time, salt buildup can lead to discoloration, scratches, and damage to protective floor coatings.
  • Increased Moisture - Snow, ice, and slush get tracked inside, especially in entryways. This moisture can damage flooring materials like wood, laminate, and some types of tile. If not adequately managed, standing water can cause warping, staining, and slippery surfaces, creating safety hazards for customers and employees.
  • Dirt and Grime Build-up - During winter, foot traffic often brings in more than just water and salt—dirt and debris also find their way inside. Grit can quickly build up, scratching and dulling flooring surfaces, especially in high-traffic areas.

How to Combat Winter's Effects on Commercial Floors


With the right floor care strategy, it’s possible to minimize winter’s impact on your commercial flooring and keep it looking clean and professional. Here’s how:


  • Use Proper Entry Mats - Invest in high-quality entry mats that can trap dirt, moisture, and salt before they spread across the floor. An effective entry mat system can reduce the amount of debris entering the building and help prolong the life of your flooring.


  • Regular Floor Scrubbing and Sweeping - Frequent floor cleaning is key to removing the salt, water, and grime that accumulate during winter. Automatic floor scrubbers and sweepers are especially effective for maintaining cleanliness in large spaces. These machines can scrub away stubborn salt residues and quickly dry floors to reduce moisture risks.


  • Floor Scrubber Rentals: If you need a short-term solution, consider renting a floor scrubber from Wisconsin Scrub & Sweep. Our rental options provide high-performance cleaning machines that can tackle winter messes without a long-term commitment.


  • Floor Scrubber Sales: For businesses with consistent cleaning needs, investing in your own floor scrubber might be the best option. Wisconsin Scrub & Sweep offers a range of high-quality floor care equipment to keep your space clean year-round.


  • Routine Maintenance and Deep Cleaning - Winter is the perfect time to schedule regular maintenance and occasional deep cleanings for your floors. Deep cleaning can remove embedded salt and dirt that daily cleaning might miss, while maintenance prevents equipment breakdowns and ensures your cleaning tools are working effectively.


  • Service and Maintenance: Wisconsin Scrub & Sweep’s service department can keep your equipment in top shape, ensuring reliable performance even during the most challenging winter conditions. From replacing worn-out parts to addressing battery issues, our experts have you covered.


  • Protective Floor Coatings - Applying protective coatings, such as sealers or wax, can provide a barrier that helps floors resist scratches, stains, and moisture. These coatings make it easier to remove salt and grime during regular cleaning. Make sure to follow up with regular maintenance to keep the coating effective.


  • Invest in Professional Cleaning Equipment- Professional floor scrubbers and sweepers are specifically designed to handle the rigorous demands of commercial spaces. They’re built to remove salt, moisture, and dirt from a variety of surfaces quickly and effectively. If your business doesn’t already have these machines on hand, consider renting or purchasing them to simplify winter cleaning routines.


  • Commercial Floor Care Equipment: At Wisconsin Scrub & Sweep, we provide a range of floor scrubbers and sweepers for sale and rental. Our machines are perfect for tackling winter’s challenges, whether you’re maintaining a small business or a large facility.

How Wisconsin Scrub & Sweep Can Help


Winter floor care doesn’t have to be a hassle. At Wisconsin Scrub & Sweep, we’re here to help your business tackle the toughest winter conditions with ease. Whether you need high-performance equipment to keep floors spotless, routine maintenance to keep your machines in top condition, or expert advice on protecting your flooring, our team is ready to support you.



Don't let winter wreak havoc on your commercial flooring. Contact Wisconsin Scrub & Sweep today and discover how we can make winter floor care simple, efficient, and effective. Together, we’ll keep your business looking its best, no matter what winter throws your way.