How to Protect Hardwood Floors From Water Damage Year-Round?

 


Hardwood floors make your home look warm and beautiful. But even though they look strong, they are very sensitive to water. Water can seep between the boards, sit on the surface, or hide under the floor. When this happens, the wood can swell, warp, stain, or even develop mold.

That’s why protecting hardwood floors from water damage is something you should do all year long. In this guide, let’s discuss everything you need to know about keeping your hardwood floors safe from water damage.

Key Takeaways

  • Hardwood floors absorb water easily, which can cause them to swell, warp, stain, and develop mold.
  • Simple daily habits and seasonal maintenance can help prevent water damage to your hardwood floors.
  • Hidden leaks and trapped moisture can cause serious long-term damage, so it’s important to call a professional quickly to fix the issue.

Why Hardwood Floors Are Vulnerable to Water Damage?

Hardwood floors come from trees. Wood absorbs water fast, just like a sponge. When wood soaks up water, it swells, and when it dries too fast, it shrinks. This constant expansion and contraction makes the boards bend, cup, or crack.

Hardwood floors are vulnerable because:

  • Wood absorbs water easily
  • Moisture can hide underneath the boards
  • Temperature changes make the wood react
  • Humidity affects the size of the wood
  • Water weakens the finish and exposes the wood

Because of this, hardwood floors need consistent care to look their best.

Types of Water Damage That Affect Hardwood Floors

Water can damage hardwood floors in many ways. Some signs show up slowly, while others appear fast. Here are the most common types:

  • Cupping: The edges of the boards rise higher than the center. This usually means water came from underneath the floor.
  • Crowning: The middle of the board swells up higher than the edges. This happens when water sits on top of the wood.
  • Warping: The wood bends, twists, or curls. This type of damage is severe.
  • Staining: Dark or cloudy marks appear when water soaks into the wood.
  • Peeling: The finish layer cracks or lifts, exposing the wood underneath.
  • Mold: Moisture that remains too long can cause mold to grow under or on top of the boards.

Daily Habits to Prevent Water Damage

These small daily habits help keep your floors dry and safe:

  • Clean spills right away: Never let water sit. Wipe it up quickly with a cloth.
  • Use mats in wet areas: Place mats near sinks, doors, and pet bowls to catch drips.
  • Dust and sweep regularly: Dirt can scratch the floor, making it easier for water to seep in.
  • Do not use wet mops: Wet mops push water into the boards. Use a microfiber mop that’s only slightly damp.
  • Control humidity: Keep humidity between 35% and 55%. Use a humidifier in winter and a dehumidifier in summer.
  • Protect floors from pet water spills: Keep bowls on trays and wipe up splashes quickly.
  • Keep shoes dry: Don’t walk on floors with wet shoes or feet.

Seasonal Maintenance Strategies

Each season brings different weather and moisture levels, so your hardwood floors need different care year-round.

Spring

  • Dust and clean the floors more often, as pollen levels increase.
  • Check for leaks caused by winter storms.
  • Make sure windows are sealed to keep rain out.

Summer

  • Humidity rises, so wood may swell. Use a dehumidifier to control moisture.
  • Air conditioning can help keep indoor humidity low.
  • Keep windows closed during heavy rains to prevent water from entering.

Fall

  • Leaves and debris can bring in moisture, so sweep more often.
  • Place rugs by all entry doors.
  • Inspect gutters, pipes, and the roof to prevent leaks before winter.

Winter

  • Dry air can make wood shrink, so use a humidifier.
  • Keep windows tightly sealed to avoid drafts and moisture.
  • Clean salt, snow, and water from shoes before walking on floors.

How to Protect Hardwood Floors From Plumbing and Household Leaks?

Plumbing leaks are one of the biggest causes of water damage because they often happen slowly and quietly. By the time you notice a problem, the damage may already be serious.

Here’s how to protect your floors:

  • Check under sinks: Look for drips, rust, and dampness
  • Inspect the water heater: Even tiny leaks can damage floors over time
  • Watch your dishwasher: Dishwashers can leak from the bottom or sides
  • Use leak alarms: Small sensors can alert you when they detect water
  • Inspect the refrigerator water line: It can crack or loosen over time
  • Replace washing machine hoses regularly: Old hoses can burst and flood your home
  • Check toilet seals: Leaks around the base of the toilet can ruin the flooring
  • Fix roof leaks early: Rainwater from above can destroy floors on upper levels

Long-Term Protective Measures

If you want your hardwood floors to last for decades, it’s important to give them long-term protection.

  • Refinish your floors: A fresh coat of finish every seven to 10 years keeps water from entering the wood.
  • Use water-resistant sealants: Some sealants act like a barrier against water.
  • Place rugs where needed: Consider putting rugs near sinks, doors, and hallways to catch spills.
  • Add pads under furniture: Furniture legs can scratch the finish, leaving the wood vulnerable.
  • Improve indoor airflow: Good ventilation helps prevent moisture buildup.
  • Update old plumbing: Old pipes are more prone to leaks. Replace them as early as possible so they don’t cause any hidden damage.
  • Install a home dehumidifier: This helps if you live in a humid climate.

Read More: 8 Water Damage Restoration Tips Every Homeowner Must Know

What to Do When Water Damage Occurs?

If your hardwood floors get wet, you need to act fast.

  • Remove the water: Soak up standing water with towels or a wet/dry vacuum.
  • Dry the area: Use fans, open windows, or run a dehumidifier.
  • Move items: Lift rugs and furniture to prevent stains and trapped moisture.
  • No heat: Don’t use heaters to dry the floor, as the boards can crack.
  • Check for issues: Look for signs of water damage like warping or stains.

Call a professional if water gets under the boards. You can’t fully dry the moisture trapped under the floor by yourself. Professionals have tools to remove hidden moisture and prevent further damage.

The Final Word

Hardwood floors can last a long time if you take care of them every day and watch for water year-round. Remember to clean spills quickly, control humidity, and check for leaks often. But if you notice major warping, mold growth, or moisture trapped under the boards, you should call a professional right away.

If you’re looking for water damage restoration services in Los Angeles, get in touch with Disaster Responders. We have the tools and training to properly dry water-damaged areas, including your floors, and prevent long-term problems. We are available 24/7 for emergencies.

Get A Water Damage Restoration in Los Angeles

Original Source:- https://disasterresponders.com/how-to-protect-hardwood-floors-from-water-damage/

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