Red Clay, Rain and Your Floors: Entryway Flooring Tips for Georgia Homes

Anyone who's lived in Metro Atlanta knows the color of Georgia red clay - usually because it's on the dog, the kids' cleats or the bottom of your work boots. Clay and grit are tough on floors, especially at the back door, garage entry and laundry room. The right floor and a few simple habits make a big difference.

Why entries take the biggest beating

Most of what ends up on your floors comes in through one or two doors. On wet days in Fayetteville, Newnan or Kennesaw, that means damp clay, leaves and gravel, all concentrated in the first few feet inside. Over time that grit dulls finishes and scratches softer surfaces, and water left sitting can find its way into seams on floors that aren't waterproof.

The right floor for a hard-working entry

This is where luxury vinyl plank earns its keep. It's waterproof, so wet shoes and muddy paws don't threaten the core, and a good wear layer stands up to grit. It also runs seamlessly into the kitchen or living room, so your entry doesn't need a different-looking floor. For homeowners who prefer laminate, today's water-resistant products can work too, as long as spills and puddles get wiped up promptly.

Color and texture that hide the mess

Very dark and very light floors both show dust and clay quickly. Mid-tone planks with visible grain and a matte, textured surface do the best job of looking clean between sweeps - a real plus if you have dogs or kids running in from the yard.

Daily habits that protect any floor

• Use a coarse mat outside and an absorbent mat inside every exterior door.
• Let clay dry, then sweep or vacuum it up rather than smearing it with a wet mop.
• Keep a boot tray and towel by the door for rainy days and pets.
• Damp-mop with a pH-neutral cleaner made for your floor type.
• Add felt pads to benches and furniture near the entry.

Let's take a look at your entry

From Peachtree City to Kennesaw, we bring full-size samples to your home so you can see how a plank looks next to your doors and trim. Check out real projects in our inspiration gallery, then book a visit and we'll give you a clear, written quote.