Hardwood flooring adds warmth, elegance, and durability to any home. However, they are extremely susceptible to water damage. Water can be the biggest enemy of hardwood flooring, causing discoloration, warping, and even structural damage if not addressed immediately. It is important to learn the causes of hardwood water damage. This will help you avoid costly repairs. When there is significant exposure to water, it is important to hire an expert water removal service.
Common Causes Of Hardwood Floor Water Damage
There are many reasons why hardwood floor water damage occurs, ranging anywhere from environmental factors to accidents. Below are some of these top causes:
- Plumbing Leaks
Leaky pipes can leak water into your house. Faulty appliances, loose plumbing connections, and leaking pipes can all cause serious damage to hardwood flooring. Over time, undetected leaks can cause your wood floors to swell up, warp, or develop mold.
- Spills Or Accidents
Everyday spills may be harmless, but water left on hardwood flooring can seep in and damage the finish. Pet accidents or overturned water bowls can cause this issue.
- Flooding
Flooding caused by heavy rain, a burst piping, or a disaster can damage hardwood floors. Standing water will cause the hardwood to swell, buckle and expand.
- High Humidity
Over-humidity can slowly but surely damage hardwood floors. When there is too much humidity in the air, the wood absorbs it and causes swelling or cupping. This is more common in bathrooms and basements.
- Improper Cleaning
Water or wet mops used to clean the wood can introduce moisture. Over time, this practice can weaken the wood’s finish and integrity, resulting in dullness and damage.
- Roof Leaks
A roof that leaks can bring water into your home. It is easy to miss until the damage becomes significant. Water from roof leaks can seep into hardwood floors and cause staining, warping, or mold growth.
- Lack Of Maintenance
If you neglect to refinish or reseal your hardwood floor, moisture can seep in. Unsealed flooring absorbs water faster, causing damage.
Prevention Tips To Protect Hardwood Floors
While there are some unavoidable causes of water damage, taking preventative measures can reduce the damage to your hardwood floor. Here’s a guide to keeping your floors clean and beautiful:
- Regularly Inspect Plumbing Appliances
Regularly inspecting appliances, including washing machines and dishwashers, can prevent plumbing-related water damage. Repair leaks and replace worn-out parts to prevent sudden failures.
- Clean Up Spills Immediately
If you have a spilled water glass or a pet mess, it is important to clean up immediately. This will prevent the liquids from seeping through the wood. Use a soft and absorbent cloth to absorb any moisture. After drying the area, apply a new, clean, soft cloth.
- Pick The Right Cleaning Methods
Avoid using excessive water or a wet mop when cleaning hardwood floors. Instead, use a moist mop or hardwood cleaning products designed to protect wood finishes and structures.
- Seal And Refinish Your Floors Frequently
Sealants and finishes can be reapplied to provide a water-resistant barrier. This maintenance procedure ensures that spills will not easily penetrate the wood.
- Install Mats Or Rugs
To protect your floors from dirt, put rugs and mats strategically at the entrances of your home, in areas where there is a lot of traffic, and near sinks. Make sure the mats you choose are non-slip. They should also allow for airflow so that moisture is not trapped underneath.
- Flooding Should Be Dealt With Immediately
If you experience flooding, it is important to act fast. Remove standing water from the floor and let it dry. A professional water removal service can prevent structural damage or mold.
Conclusion
Hardwood floors are beautiful and valuable investments for any home. They require care and vigilance to protect them against water damage. It is important to understand the common causes of water damage, including plumbing leaks, high humidity, and spills. Hardwood flooring can last much longer with regular maintenance, timely cleanup, and the use of protective measures.
If there is a significant amount of water, you should immediately contact a professional to remove it. These experts will not only remove excess water but also ensure the floors are restored and secured against future issues. If you take the necessary precautions and seek expert help, your hardwood flooring can last many years.