Winter-Proof Your Facility: How to Manage Seasonal Weather, Salt, & Slips

If you are in a region that gets snow, you know the challenges of keeping your facility clean and safe during the winter time. From icy sidewalks to salt-streaked and slippery floors, maintaining a clean appearance and a hazard-free environment is no small task. Beyond preventing slips and falls, these conditions can actually damage your flooring if not properly taken care of in a timely manner.

However, with a proactive cleaning strategy, you can protect your floors and ensure a safe facility all winter long.

Winter Hazards

When temperatures drop, more debris gets tracked indoors. Snow and ice melt create slick surfaces that put safety on the line. Add salt and de-icing chemicals to the mix and you’re dealing with stubborn residue that doesn’t just look bad, but can corrode and permanently damage your flooring. Left unchecked, these hazards lead to:

• Costly repairs from corrosion and wear
• Liability concerns from slipping accidents
• A poor impression for visitors and customers

Floor Cleaning Equipment: Your First Line of Defense

Your floor cleaning equipment is your first line of defense against winter grime. That’s why it’s so crucial to keep up with proper maintenance and timely part replacement to keep your machines running at their best to tackle winter debris before it creates an unmanageable mess– or even a safety hazard.

Pro Tip: Salt and chemical residue can build up inside tanks, hoses, and recovery systems, leading to corrosion and premature wear. A quick rinse after each use and periodic deep cleaning will keep your equipment performing efficiently and extend its lifespan.

Replace Worn Parts for Peak Performance

If your equipment is your first line of defense, then the right parts in good condition are essential for keeping the winter mess at bay. Worn parts can affect water recovery, drying time, and require multiple passes to sufficiently clean the floor, which ultimately costs you more time and money.

Here’s what to check:

Squeegee Blades

Squeegee blades are critical for water recovery and ensuring floors dry quickly without streaks. Cracked, torn, or wavy squeegee blades will leave excess water behind, creating a slip hazard. Flip or replace* them as soon as you notice damage or excessive wear.

Need help choosing the right squeegee blade for your floor type? Check out our blog post here: triadservice.com/blog/view/1502/squeegee-blade

Scrub Brushes & Pads

Salt buildup is stubborn, especially on textured floors where residue accumulates in cracks and crevices. That’s why using the right scrubbing tool and replacing* them when worn is even more critical during the winter season.

Not sure whether brushes or pads are better for your floors? Check out our comparison blog post here: triadservice.com/blog/view/1622/scrub-pads-vs-scrub-brushes

*For tips on when to replace squeegee blades, pads, and brushes, check out our guide here: triadservice.com/blog/view/1577/wearable-parts-on-floor-cleaners

Use the Right Cleaning Chemical

Even with the right parts, your cleaning results also depend on the right cleaning chemical. For salt residue, we recommend Biosolutions Bio Floor Neutralizer. It effectively neutralizes salt without the use of toxic chemicals and is safe for use on all floors–even carpet.

To order Biosolutions Bio Floor Neutralizer or to get a quote, please email parts@triadservice.com or call us at 888-834-9948.

Don’t Wait for the First Snowstorm

Don’t wait for the first snowstorm to catch you off guard. Prepare now to protect your floors, safeguard your staff, and maintain your facility’s professional image. Stock up on your floor care essentials today so your equipment is ready to handle winter weather this season.

Good news: Save up to 50% on the wearable parts you need to prepare for winter weather with our Winter Wearables Sale happening now through the end of November!

We’re here to help! Feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns you have.

Call us: (888) 834-9948

Parts Email: parts@triadservice.com

Service Email: service@triadservice.com