by
Lawton Brothers
| Jul 03, 2025
Summer can be one of the most demanding seasons for facility maintenance. High temperatures, increased humidity, and stronger UV exposure put significant stress on building systems, surfaces, and infrastructure. Whether you're managing a school, office complex, government facility, or industrial site, it's essential to prepare your facility for the unique challenges summer presents.
At Lawton Bros, we’ve been helping facility managers across the Southeast maintain clean, safe, and long-lasting buildings for over 75 years. In this blog, we’ll explore the common types of heat-related wear and tear—and the proactive cleaning and maintenance practices you can implement to reduce risk and protect your investment.
Why Summer Poses Unique Risks to Facilities
As temperatures rise, so do issues related to:
UV degradation of flooring, paint, and finishes
Warped or cracked surfaces due to heat expansion
Mold and mildew from excessive humidity
HVAC overload and indoor air quality issues
Exterior surface damage from sun and storm exposure
A reactive approach to these issues often results in costly repairs. A proactive summer maintenance plan, however, helps prevent problems, preserves equipment, and ensures a healthier environment for building occupants.
Key Areas to Focus On for Summer Facility Maintenance
1. Floor Care Under High Heat and Humidity
Hard floors and carpets both suffer during summer months. Heat and UV exposure can cause discoloration or fading, while humidity accelerates the growth of mold and mildew—especially in high-traffic or poorly ventilated areas.
Best Practices:
Strip and recoat VCT or terrazzo floors with a UV-resistant floor finish
Use walk-off mats to reduce tracked-in moisture and grit
Extract and sanitize carpets using low-moisture or fast-drying systems to prevent mold
Lawton Bros Tip:
We recommend our fast-curing, low-VOC floor finishes that provide added durability and resist UV-related yellowing, even in sunlit corridors and lobbies.
2. Restroom and Locker Room Moisture Control
Restrooms, locker rooms, and other humid environments are at increased risk for bacterial growth during the summer.
Action Steps:
Clean and disinfect all grout lines, drains, and tile surfaces
Use antimicrobial cleaners designed for damp environments
Run exhaust fans and dehumidifiers consistently
Inspect for condensation buildup around plumbing or windows
Lawton Bros Tip:
Choose EPA-registered disinfectants labeled for fungicidal and mildew control, and apply them with foaming sprayers for full surface coverage.
3. HVAC System Cleaning and Air Quality Management
As air conditioning systems run more frequently, dirty filters or coils can reduce efficiency, trap moisture, and circulate allergens.
Maintenance Checklist:
Replace HVAC filters monthly or according to manufacturer guidance
Clean coils, drip pans, and vents to prevent microbial growth
Inspect insulation for damp spots or mildew odors
Ensure thermostats and airflow are balanced across the facility
Lawton Bros Tip:
We offer coil cleaners and air duct sanitizers that are safe for frequent use and ideal for healthcare, education, and office environments.
4. Exterior Surface Protection and Cleaning
Building exteriors endure high UV exposure, heavy rain, and even wind-driven debris during summer storms.
Suggested Maintenance:
Pressure wash sidewalks, entryways, and building facades
Inspect and seal cracks in concrete or exterior walls
Apply UV-resistant sealers to decks, railings, and outdoor furniture
Clear gutters and downspouts to prevent flooding
Lawton Bros Tip:
Use our biodegradable outdoor cleaners for safe yet effective removal of mold, algae, and dirt—without harming landscaping or runoff areas.
5. Preventative Maintenance in High-Use Areas
Summer often brings increased use of certain spaces—like gyms, cafeterias, and multipurpose rooms—due to summer camps, events, or renovations.
To reduce wear and tear:
Increase cleaning frequency to handle additional foot traffic
Use floor protectors or mats under equipment and furniture
Disinfect shared-use equipment daily
Store sensitive supplies or electronics in climate-controlled areas
Lawton Bros Tip:
Our team can help assess your most vulnerable areas and recommend seasonal maintenance protocols that reduce long-term damage.
Sustain Facility Performance Through the Heat
Proactive maintenance during the summer isn’t just about cleanliness—it’s about protecting your people, extending the life of your assets, and avoiding costly downtime when the fall season ramps up.
Need Help Building a Summer Maintenance Plan?
Whether you need high-performance products, preventative maintenance tools, or on-site training for your staff, Lawton Bros is your trusted partner in facility care. We’ve been helping professionals protect their spaces through every season since 1946.
📞 Contact your local Lawton Bros representative today at 800-432-0813 or explore our catalog of high-performance cleaning and maintenance solutions.