What Causes Poor Performance in a Hard Surface Floor?

As a flooring inspector, you check flooring complaints to identify the problem and determine how to resolve it.

When vinyl or wood flooring underperforms, inspect every aspect to determine the cause. Look closely at installation, maintenance, and environmental conditions. When consumers believe the flooring is not performing well, it can significantly impact customer satisfaction.

Often, the top issues with flooring complaints have to do with cleaning and maintenance. When the flooring is not being properly cared for, it can cause a lot of problems, both with appearance and performance. Customers need to be educated on how to properly clean and maintain flooring.

Here are a few essential tips that customers must be aware of:

• Use rugs and mats: Catching dirt and grit at entries and exits will go a long way to prevent scratching and soiling. Shoes can track in chemicals from asphalt, causing discoloration.
• Regular cleaning: Letting dirt and grease build up on the floor is never a good idea, so cleaning regularly is a must to get all that ground-in dirt.
• Choose the proper cleaning products: Harsh, heavy-duty chemicals are never a good choice for flooring. Mild detergents used regularly are much more effective than hardcore cleaners. Manufacturers formulate some cleaners for specific surfaces to prevent buildup.
• Never over-wet: Damp mops are best for hard surface flooring because a drenched mop will put unnecessary moisture on it. Too much moisture can affect the flooring material or the adhesive below it. This can cause staining, curling, and more.
• Rinse well: Leaving cleaner behind can cause all kinds of buildup, like soap scum, which can attract and collect dirt. This affects the performance of the floor as a safe place to walk.

Cleaning and maintenance procedures are an important part of keeping the hard surface floor clean and beautiful. Poor performance will affect the way the customer feels about the flooring and can have a negative impact on the whole room. The owner is responsible for proper care, but without proper education, they can create many complaints.