As the temperature continues to creep downward, it is becoming harder and harder to keep our feet warm. Now, the ideal remedy for
this would be to install underfloor heating beneath a beautiful heat-conducting tile floor. There's nothing quite like stepping onto a toasty tile when winter hits. We realize, however, that this is not always an option within everyone's budget, so here are a few tips to beat the cold this winter:
1. Start with socks
Michiganders know that this is a go-to solution for anyone looking to protect chilly feet from winter nights. Socks or slippers will ensure that your toes never have to endure the hideous shock of hitting icy tile in the morning, and they'll add a bit of cushion for your joints too (bonus!). Now, if you do end up championing socks this winter, invest in some wool or chiengora socks. These have the ability to repel moisture, whereas cotton will trap it and leave your feet both cold and wet. Yuck!
2. Change the Scenery
You can use a little imagination for a fashionable solution to cold tile. Get some winter area rugs or runners to spread across the floor. The redecoration will give you the opportunity to change things up a bit while giving your feet something more inviting to walk on. Rugs will also protect your floors from damaging winter dangers such as snow, salt and mud. It's a win-win!
3. Upgrade those Rugs
If rugs aren't cutting it on their own and you have a little wiggle-room in your budget, consider an electric heated mat to go underneath. These toasty mats are intended to slip under your rugs and then you simply plug them in. Just imagine stepping on to a deliciously warm rug when the day is chilly! Sounds pretty good, doesn't it? We just wouldn't suggest installing them without great caution in rooms susceptible to water spills (bathroom, kitchen, etc.).
4. Guard Against Drafts
Tile doesn't need much help chilling over, but the problem with their temperature increases drastically whenever a draft finds its way in from the outside. Check your doors for unsealed drafts or holes. If you find anything, particularly at the bottom of the door, you can fix the issue with an inexpensive draft guard. Installing a new seal under the door would be a great choice too!
There you have it! Good, cheap solutions to protect your feet against those tiles of yours. Be sure to contact us if you have any questions about what you've read or about installing a floor with underfloor heating. We'd love to help!
Stay warm!