More homeowners are looking to install hardwood flooring in their homes due to its durability and visual appeal. Although hardwood floors have longevity and a beautiful appearance, they can also become damaged when they come in contact with moisture. If you want to maintain their quality over the years, it’s important to know what happens when hardwood floors get wet and the steps you’ll need to take. The pros from Unique Flooring, a premier supplier of hardwood flooring in San Diego, offer the following advice on how to manage water and wood floors.
Warping
Whether your hardwood floors have come into contact with only a small amount of water or the entire room has flooded, damage can begin to warp the material and requires quick action. You may also notice the floors begin to cup, crack, or heave, which can affect their overall quality and appearance. If the problem isn’t addressed quickly, you may notice the floors begin to move. You’ll need to remove excess water with a dry cloth or a water vacuum, depending on the extent of the damage. Wood floors that have contact with only a minimal amount of water can dry on their own without becoming damaged, but if a lot of water is present, the floors should be treated immediately by wood floor professionals, who can thoroughly dry the area with specific techniques and professional equipment.
Mold Growth
Mold is prone to multiply once wood floors get wet, which makes it necessary to inspect the area before it begins to spread. Mold can cause damage to the material and also make the building’s air quality hazardous. If the water sits for too long, it may require replacing the hardwood floors completely. Contact a mold professional immediately if you spot any signs of mold after the water has dried.
Lengthy Drying Time
Many people assume the cleanup process is quick after hardwood floors get wet, but the drying time can be extensive, depending on how severe the damage is in the home. In many cases, it can take several weeks or months for wood flooring to completely dry, even with the use of industrial fans. A flooring professional will need to confirm there isn’t any remaining moisture before the refinishing process can begin. Checking the subfloor is also necessary to determine if water has leaked through to the extra layer. Subfloors can also suffer damage and are prone to growing mold, which makes it essential to treat it immediately before the problem escalates.
Knowing how water can affect hardwood floors allows you to understand the threat it poses and the extent of damage it can cause. You’ll need to work closely with a professional to inspect the floors and learn the right steps to take to restore the wood material to its original condition.
Reach out to the flooring experts at Unique Flooring for advice on maintaining your hardwood floors, including how to avoid water damage. We can also assist you with expert floor refinishing services or get you started off right with high-quality floor installation. San Diego homeowners should drop by our showroom or give us a call at 760-454-1436.
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