How to Winter Proof Your Entryway

Your entryway is the first impression your home makes. It’s where you welcome guests, greet family, and transition from the outside world into your personal sanctuary. As winter approaches, bringing with it slush, salt, and chilly drafts, this hardworking space faces its toughest test. Preparing your entryway for the colder months is about more than just cleanliness. It’s about protecting your home from the elements and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere from the moment someone steps through the door.

With a few thoughtful updates, you can create a winterproof entryway that is both beautiful and incredibly functional. As your local flooring experts, we’ve gathered our best tips to help you prepare your home for whatever winter weather comes its way, ensuring your floors and your spirits stay bright all season long.

Design by Michelle Berwick Photography by Larry Arnal

Start with a Strong Foundation: Waterproof Flooring

When it comes to home protection in the winter, your flooring is the first line of defence. The constant traffic of wet, salty boots can take a toll on many floor types, leading to potential damage. This is why waterproof flooring is the undisputed champion for any entryway. Whether you're dealing with melting snow, pouring rain, or sleet, you can have peace of mind knowing your floors are built to handle it.

Waterproof floors are not only practical but also incredibly long-lasting. They are engineered to resist splashes, puddles, and spills that are inevitable during winter.

Entryway Flooring Ideas

One of our favourite waterproof flooring options is engineered hardwood flooring. It offers the genuine charm and timeless beauty of real hardwood, bringing warmth to any interior design style, from modern to farmhouse, while being water-resistant and durable. Another excellent choice is luxury vinyl plank or tile. Modern luxury vinyl flooring offers stunningly realistic wood and stone looks, comes in completely waterproof options, and is highly resistant to scratches and scuffs. This makes it a perfect solution for a busy, all-season entryway.

Double Down on Defence with Durable Mats

Even with waterproof floors, a good mat is essential for an effective winterproof entryway. Placing a high-quality, durable mat both outside and inside your door creates a two-step system for trapping dirt, water, and debris.

The exterior mat should be a heavy-duty workhorse, designed to scrape away the worst of the snow and mud from shoes. Look for materials with a bristly texture. Inside, an absorbent and stylish area rug can catch any remaining moisture. This simple addition not only provides crucial floor protection but also keeps tracked-in messes from spreading throughout the house. An interior rug also brings a layer of warmth and a sophisticated touch of colour to your entryway, instantly elevating the space and showcasing your personal style the moment guests arrive.

Stay Organized with Stylish Storage

Winter comes with a lot of gear: heavy coats, bulky scarves, hats, gloves, and boots. Without a designated spot for everything, your entryway can quickly become a cluttered drop zone. Smart and stylish storage solutions are key to maintaining a welcoming and organized space.

Add Extra Coat Hooks

If your front closet is already packed, consider adding a row of decorative coat hooks to an open wall. This is an easy, affordable update that provides a convenient place for wet jackets to air-dry before being put away. It also offers plenty of space for guests' coats when you're entertaining. You can also use hooks to hang purses, scarves, and other winter accessories, keeping them off the floor and within easy reach.

Utilize Smart Cabinetry

For a truly streamlined look, built-in or freestanding cabinet solutions are a game-changer. They provide ample storage for every season. You can tuck away winter gloves, hats, and scarves when they’re not needed, and easily access boots and umbrellas when the weather turns. A storage bench is another fantastic option, offering a place to sit and remove shoes while hiding winter accessories inside. These pieces are not only incredibly useful but can also be custom-fit to enhance the look and feel of your home.

Design by Michelle Berwick Photography by Larry Arnal

Prepare Your Home for Every Season

The winter months can be harsh, but they don’t have to take a toll on your home. By taking these simple steps to winterproof your entryway, you can protect your investment and create a functional, welcoming space you’ll love coming home to year-round. While winter doesn't last forever, these smart solutions will serve you well every time the season returns.

Ready to find the perfect flooring solution for your entryway? Explore our incredible selection of waterproof flooring, including durable luxury vinyl and beautiful engineered hardwood. Visit us in-store to explore our collection and speak with one of our flooring experts. Can't wait? Schedule your consultation today, and let's create a home that's ready for any season.

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