Christmas trees can do serious damage to your flooring if precautionary measures aren’t taken. Thankfully, Neighborly has you covered! Check out these tips and enjoy both your tree and your floors to the fullest in this season.
Real vs. Artificial
Going for an artificial tree this year? Claim it proudly! There’s no shame in choosing an artificial tree. They’re beautiful and much easier to maintain. However, if you crave the winter fragrance that only comes with a chopped down tree, continue reading!
The Culprits
When it comes to floor damage, we’ve identified three Christmas “culprits.”
- Water – You’ll inevitably need to water your tree, and water can puddle quickly.
- Sap – Sap is especially problematic for carpet. No one wants to find a gunky surprise when it comes time to clean up!
- Pine needles – Pine needles have the power to put unsightly scratches in hardwood when not removed promptly.
Preserve Your Floors
Fear not! With the following tips, you can get the most out of your Christmas tree while maintaining the beauty of the floor below it.
- Before even heading to the Christmas tree farm, prepare your tree’s new home. Sweep, vacuum, and/or microfiber mop the space thoroughly before walking out the door.
- Create a proper barrier between your tree and the floor below. A Christmas tree stand will ensure water and sap stay away from the floor. Don’t forget to protect the flooring from the stand! Be sure to add felt pads to the feet of the stand if you’re placing it on hardwood.
- For added protection, add a drain tray underneath your Christmas tree stand. This tray can be normally used under appliances like your washing machine or purchased from a garden store. Disguise it with a tree skirt and you’re good to go!
- Consider incorporating a tree mat in your space. These are designed for hardwood and absorb water correctly. Do not use a towel! Water and moisture will get trapped which is bad news for your floors.
- Before hauling your tree inside, shake off any loose needles. Clean up needles daily with your vacuum cleaner or mop to prevent scratching.
- If your tree is hydrated well, you’ll have less needle loss. Water your tree often but be mindful of unanticipated puddles!
- If you’re thinking about refinishing your hardwood flooring, wait until after the holidays.
Oh, Tannenbaum! With these tips, your floors will look just as great as your Christmas tree this season.
For more tips and tricks for the home, visit our Neighborly Expert Tips page.
As an expert in home maintenance and flooring preservation, I understand the importance of safeguarding your living space, especially during festive seasons like Christmas. My knowledge is rooted in practical experience and a deep understanding of the potential challenges that can arise when incorporating natural elements, such as Christmas trees, into your home decor.
The article highlights the potential damage that Christmas trees can inflict on your flooring and offers practical tips to mitigate these risks. Let's break down the key concepts mentioned in the article:
Real vs. Artificial Trees
The article discusses the choice between real and artificial Christmas trees. While artificial trees are praised for their beauty and easy maintenance, some individuals prefer the authenticity and winter fragrance of a chopped-down tree.
Culprits for Floor Damage
Three main culprits for floor damage are identified:
- Water: Watering the tree is essential, but it can lead to puddles that may damage flooring.
- Sap: Sap poses a particular threat to carpets, and cleaning up sap can be challenging.
- Pine Needles: Pine needles, if not promptly removed, can cause scratches on hardwood floors.
Tips for Floor Preservation
The article provides practical tips to preserve your floors:
- Preparation: Clean the designated tree area thoroughly before bringing in the tree.
- Use a Christmas Tree Stand: Place the tree in a stand to keep water and sap away from the floor. Add felt pads to the stand's feet for hardwood protection.
- Add a Drain Tray: Place a drain tray under the tree stand to prevent water damage. Disguise it with a tree skirt for a festive look.
- Tree Mat: Use a tree mat designed for hardwood floors to absorb water properly. Avoid using towels, as they can trap moisture.
- Needle Maintenance: Shake off loose needles before bringing the tree inside. Clean up needles daily to prevent scratching, using a vacuum cleaner or mop.
- Hydration: Water the tree regularly to minimize needle loss, but be cautious of potential puddles.
- Timing for Floor Refinishing: If you plan to refinish your hardwood floors, it's advisable to wait until after the holiday season.
By following these tips, you can enjoy the beauty of your Christmas tree while ensuring that your floors remain unscathed. Remember, a well-preserved floor enhances the overall aesthetic of your living space during the festive season.
