Here is how you can address water on your hardwood floors.
Water is a big hazard to wood, and this means that any hardwood floors you have in your home have to be protected from water damage. Unfortunately, there might come a time when your floors get exposed to water, even if you try your best to prevent this problem from happening. It’s important to know how to deal with water on your hardwood flooring so that you minimize the damage that your floor sustains. Here is how you can address water on your hardwood floors.
Stop the Source of the Water
First and foremost, you need to address the source of the problem. Otherwise, even if you address the water on your floor, more water is going to show up again. Once the source of the water has been identified and addressed, you can tend to your floor without the concern of water reappearing later.
Dry the Area as Quickly as Possible
Speed is key when dealing with water on your hardwood floors. If water is allowed to stand for too long, it can start to cause structural damage to your floors, and mold can begin to develop. To get your hardwood flooring dry, you should use towels or a vacuum to get rid of standing water. It’s also a good idea to use fans and dehumidifiers to get the surrounding air as dry as possible. On pleasant days, you might be able to open up windows as well for further ventilation.
Addressing Cupping and Swelling
Water damage can cause hardwood floors to swell and cup because of the absorption of moisture into the floor planks. In minor cases of cupping, you should be able to fix your flooring by drying the wood gradually over time, then reintroducing humidity at a slow rate. In more severe cases, you’ll likely need to get professional help getting your hardwood flooring back to normal.
Replace Any Badly-Damaged Floor Boards
If your hardwood floor boards are severely damaged from rotting or buckling, you’ll probably need to replace those boards with new ones. This is best done with help from a professional hardwood flooring company. By getting professional assistance, you ensure the best results when your new floor gets installed.
Ready for a Beautiful Hardwood Floor? Trust John K Eareckson & Co.
When you work with John K Eareckson & Co., Flooring, we will ensure your hardwood floors undergo a stress-free acclimation process and that they sparkle for years to come; from a seamless and beautiful installation to years of maintenance, John K Eareckson & Co. Flooring has the expertise to care for your home’s hardwood floors. For a consultation and more information, visit us online or give us a call at 410-788-4200. You can also look for us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Flickr.