Hardwood floors provide a timeless aesthetic to any home but are vulnerable to one of nature’s most pervasive elements: water. 

When water finds its way onto hardwood floors and seeps into them, it can cause unsightly and damaging consequences. The wood may discolor, warp, or develop mold, putting the flooring’s appearance and structure at risk. Due to this, it’s crucial to take swift and proper action to mitigate hardwood floor water damage. 

What Happens When Hardwood Flooring Comes Into Contact With Water?

Due to wood’s porous nature, hardwood floors can show noticeable changes even after a small spill. You may notice discoloration or spots where the water has seeped into the wood’s surface. 

Wood planks can also swell after coming into contact with water. Their fibers expand as they absorb the excess moisture, causing the planks to warp. This warping can manifest as cupping, where the edges of the planks rise higher than the center, or crowning, where the center of the plank is higher than the edges. 

In extreme cases, the planks may lift from the subfloor, creating an uneven and hazardous surface. 

Long-Term Effects of Prolonged Water Exposure

Hardwood floors that remain waterlogged for an extended period may suffer severe damage. The constant swelling and contracting of the wood fibers as they take in and release moisture can weaken the overall structure of your flooring. Prolonged exposure can even cause the planks to crack or split. 

The damp conditions can also cause the growth of mold and mildew, which can create health issues, especially for those with allergies or asthma. 

Ultimately, excessive water damage can harm your hardwood floors and cause the wood’s natural composition to break down. At this point, replacement may be the only option – an outcome that can be emotionally and financially burdensome. 

What To Do After Hardwood Floor Water Damage

When it comes to dealing with a water-damaged hardwood floor, here are the three immediate steps that must be taken: 

• Stop the Source: Whether it’s a leaky pipe, an overflowing appliance, or a natural disaster, act quickly to halt the water flow and prevent further damage.  
• Remove Standing Water: Use mops, buckets, or a wet vacuum to remove excess water as quickly as possible. Water will continue to seep into the wood as long as it remains. 
• Ventilate the Area and Assess the Situation: Open windows and doors and use fans to circulate air and assist in drying. It’s also a good idea to place a dehumidifier in the affected area to absorb excess moisture. 

Hardwood Floor Repair Water Damage: Tips and Tricks

1. Identify the Extent of Water Exposure

Before you dive into repair mode, it’s best to assess the extent of the damage. Water sitting on the surface for a long time or seeping between planks can cause more extensive damage than what’s visible.

Watch out for warping, buckling, or discoloration of the wood, as they often indicate significant water damage. If you notice any, the flooring may require more than a surface-level repair.

2. Dry the Affected Area Thoroughly

Use fans, dehumidifiers, or open windows to dry the affected area thoroughly. This step may take several days, but it’s crucial to remove all moisture before any repairs occur. 

On top of that, monitor the drying process and how it’s going. If there is no noticeable improvement in the moisture levels, it’s best to get experts involved as soon as possible. 

3. Gently Sand and Refinish

Once the floors are dry and the boards stabilize, gently sand any cupped, warped, or swollen areas. Remember, sanding too aggressively can cause more harm than good. After sanding, you can apply a fresh finish to the wood to help protect it and restore its appearance. 

4. Replace Severely Damaged Planks

Unfortunately, the damage can be too extensive in some instances to repair through sanding and refinishing alone. When your hardwood floorboards have risen from the floor by 4-5 inches, they’re likely beyond saving and require complete replacement. 

5. Take Steps To Prevent Future Damage

Use mats and rugs to protect high-traffic areas and clean up spills immediately. Regular cleaning and maintenance of your hardwood floors can prevent minor issues from becoming big problems. 

It’s also a good idea to apply a sealant to your hardwood floors if they aren’t already sealed. Doing so can add a layer of protection from water and moisture. 

Saving Your Hardwood Floors Begins With Swift Action

When it comes to water damage and your hardwood floors, time is of the essence. Act swiftly, assess the situation, and if it’s beyond the scope of a simple fix, don’t hesitate to call in the experts. Remember, it’s not just about aesthetics; it’s also about the structural integrity of your floors and the health of your home environment.  

While the prospect of water damage to your beautiful hardwood floors might be daunting, there are many proactive steps you can take to repair and protect them. Even better, your local experts at Restoration 1 of North Atlanta are here to lend a hand when the damage is beyond a simple DIY fix. 

Don’t stress over hardwood floor water damage alone. Contact our local Restoration 1 team, and we’ll be there shortly to restore the beauty of your floors and, most importantly, the comfort of your home.