How to fix wood floor water damage? Wood floors are becoming increasingly popular due to their durability and beauty, despite their properties they are not immune to the effects of water damage.
The signs, solutions, and everything you need to know about water-damaged hardwood floors will be explained in detail in this article as we explore “How to fix wood flooring water damage.
Signs of water-damaged wood floors
There are several indications to show that a hardwood floor is being affected by water, these signs are explained below.
Blistering and peeling
This is one of the most prevalent indications or signs of water damage, prolonged exposure to water is the main cause of blistering and peeling. This may come from leaks, spills, or burst pipes, among other things.
Moisture-related issues may get worse if the subfloor has insufficient ventilation, inadequate ventilation allows moisture to seep through and cause blistering and peeling on the wood floor.
The quality of the wood determines how resistant it is to water damage. When faced with moisture difficulties, finishes that are worn out or of low quality are more prone to blistering and peeling.
Discoloration
Discoloration refers to any alteration in the natural color or appearance of hardwood flooring brought about by the presence of water, discoloration can be in the form of dark patches, stains, or an overall change in color, among other things.
Concentrated wet spots could result in blotches or black patches on the surface of the floor.
Prolonged exposure to water can cause staining, in which the pigments in the water are absorbed by the wood floor, altering its color.
There could be significant discoloration causing the entire floor to lose its original color leading to severe damage.
Mold growth
Mold and water have a symbiotic relationship, with moisture acting as the catalyst for mold spores to germinate and thrive, this is also one of the most common signs of water damage.
Mold can often be visible to the naked eye, mold may show up as sporadic patches, streaks, or even entire covers depending on the severity of water damage.
Water penetration is the main reason why mold grows on hardwood floors, there are several possible causes for this, such as spills, leaks, or weakened subfloors.
Mold growth might not always be evident on the surface, hidden water leaks, like those behind walls or under the flooring, can cause mold to grow and eventually lead to water-damaged hardwood floors.
Cupping and buckled boards
Cupping occurs when the edges of wood planks rise and take on a concave shape. Because the middle of the plank stays lower than the edges, it has a pronounced cup-like shape. Cupping is a common indication of water-related issues in hardwood floors.
A more extreme type of deformation known as buckling results in an uneven and deformed surface as wood planks are lifted off the subfloor. Buckling frequently affects bigger areas of the floor and might jeopardize the structural integrity of the entire installation, unlike cupping, which mainly affects individual planks.
The primary cause of cupping and buckling is the absorption of excess moisture by the wood fibers, this can occur due to spills, leaks, or subfloor dampness in the hardwood floor
Buckling and cupping indicate that the floor is structurally damaged. These distortions have the potential to compromise the stability and integrity of the entire flooring system if they are not corrected.
Musty odor
Mold and mildew are often accompanied by musty odors, when these fungi thrive in damp environments, they release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that contribute to the distinctive musty smell.
When it comes to wood floors, a musty smell implies more than just an unpleasant smell. It is an indication of excess moisture and possible water damage, alerting you to look into and take care of the underlying problem as soon as possible.
Conducting a sniff test is the simplest way to detect a musty smell. It’s important to look into any damp, earthy, or moldy smells that you detect near your wood floor.
The primary cause of a musty odor on hardwood floors is water intrusion. Whether from leaks, spills, or high humidity levels, water seeping into the floor creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew growth.
How to repair floor water damage?
Repairing water-damaged wood floors involves a very simple and detailed process, this process is explained below.
Assess the damage and extract excess water
Quickly and thoroughly assess the affected wood floor as soon as water damage is detected. Search for visual indicators like discoloration, warping, cupping, or any areas with standing water.
Remove any nearby items, including furniture and rugs, from the impacted area. Take immediate action if there is standing water on the wood floor. Use a mop, towels, or a water vacuum to absorb as much water as you can. Try your best to minimize the duration of contact between water and the floor.
Remove damaged boards
Once the water has been removed, you should remove the boards and dry the floor. Get all the necessary tools that you’ll need, such as an oscillating tool, a pry bar, or a circular saw, to remove the board. Carefully cut along the seams of the damaged boards and remove them without causing damage to nearby boards that are still good.
Pay attention to the installation technique because it can affect how the board is removed and exercise caution during the removal process to avoid splintering or damaging surrounding boards.
Keep an eye out for any concealed moisture pockets under the floorboards. If the water damage is severe consider lifting sections of the subfloor to permit direct ventilation and make sure it is completely dry.
Remove mold and replace the boards
Begin the process by thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the affected areas where mold and mildew have taken hold, you should use a solution of water and gentle dish soap to clean the wood.
Once the mold and mildew have been removed, proceed to identify which of the boards needs to be replaced. Search for seriously damaged boards, making sure that any mold, warping, or discoloration is eliminated.
Depending on the initial installation method, use appropriate techniques to ensure a beautiful and appealing result when repairing the hardwood floor water damage.
Finishing
After the replacement, the next thing to do is sanding, ensure the wood surface is completely dry and free of debris, and that any damaged boards have been replaced before starting the sanding process.
Select the appropriate sandpaper grit depending on the condition of the floor. Maintain a consistent sanding technique, moving with the grain of the wood to prevent scratching or unevenness, you could also use an orbital sander.
If there are old water stains on your floor you can remove them with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar.
Choose a finish that aligns with the desired appearance and functional goals. Apply the chosen finish using an appropriate method, ensure an even application, and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines during application. After the drying process, clean with baby wipes to add an extra shine.
Tips for protecting wood floors
- Regularly sweep. Over time, dirt can cause scratches on your hardwood floor. Frequent sweeping or water vacuum cleaning reduces the chance of abrasions and helps maintain a clean surface.
- Use appropriate products. To prevent damaging the finish, use cleaning products designed specifically for wood floors and avoid ammonia, strong chemicals, and excessive water when cleaning your floor.
- Apply protective coatings. Consider applying additional protective coatings or sealants to enhance the durability of your floor.
- Promptly address spills. Act quickly and address spills on your hardwood floor as soon as possible to avoid water damage and staining. Use a soft, dry cloth or paper towel to absorb the liquid and avoid leaving dampness on floors.
- Use doormats. Place high-quality doormats at all entry points to collect moisture and dirt from shoes. Regularly clean or shake out these mats to maintain their effectiveness and increase their longevity.
FAQ
Can hardwood floors be repaired after water damage?
Yes, you can repair hardwood flooring from water damage by removing excess water and replacing the damaged hardwood.
How do you fix a swollen wood floor?
You can easily fix swollen wooden floors by eliminating the source of moisture and replacing the swollen wood floors with an appropriate one.
Will wet wood floor go back to normal?
While some wet wood floors go back to normal in a few days or weeks, some might require removing the wood flooring to dry out the subfloor.
How do you reverse water damage on a wood floor?
You can easily reverse water-damaged wood floors by removing the surface water and treating the moldy areas.
How much water does it take to ruin wood floors?
A moisture content of about 40 percent is enough to severely ruin hardwood flooring necessitating total replacement.
How long does it take for wood floors to warp from water damage?
If wood boards are not dried within 1 to 2 days they may start to wrap and crap necessitating total replacement.
Conclusion
Assessing and promptly addressing hardwood floor water damage is very important for the durability and longevity of your floors. By taking necessary precautions and using this article as a guide you can easily fix any water-damaged hardwood floors and restore the beauty and functionality of your beautiful wooden floors.
