Protecting floors - an appeal to architects

Working in the interiors industry, I often come across the problem of architects overlooking entrance areas in designed buildings. Of course, our experience and knowledge, allows us to solve these problems. Fortunately, this happens less and less frequently and awareness of this issue is growing.

Nevertheless, we appeal to architects as well as contractors to gain knowledge and incorporate appropriate doormat systems into their designs. Attention should be paid to both the surface area of the cleaning runs and the selection of the products themselves.

The recommended length of a cleaning draught is approximately 9-10m, which we in turn divide into 2-4 cleaning zones.

We distinguish between the zones:

Zone I - cleaning - the zone whose task is to catch as much dirt as possible (snow, mud, sand, etc.), i.e. dirt that not only destroys the visual effect of the interior, but also damages our floors. In this area, we suggest using wipers with a large capacity and a rough structure.

Zone II - the cleaning zone - its task is to catch the residual dirt from our footwear that was not caught in the first zone. Wipers in this zone often have intermediate characteristics of the I and III zones, but a larger capacity.

Zone III - drying - the main purpose of this area is to dry moisture from the footwear and also fine dust. The parameter of moisture absorption and the use of the appropriate type of doormats will allow us to avoid soiling our floors in the further part of the facility and, what often occurs, reduces the risk of slipping on a wet floor.

 Of course, every type of entrance is different and we may not always be able to carry out the recommended requirements, which is why doormat consultants have a role to play.