Hardwood Flooring

Restoration of Flooring After a Flood Disaster

Successful restoration of flooring depends on factors such as response time, type of flooring, amount of moisture, and the degree of water damage already present. A common question asked is, “Can I dry hardwood floors after water damage?”  The only downfall to hardwood flooring is that in the event of a flood, you cannot easily take it out and dry it like carpet. Here are some of the main considerations you should make when considering calling a water damage restoration company to dry hardwood floor.

Response Time

According to the EPA, mold can grow in as little as 48 to 72 hours on almost all household materials if they have a moisture level of 16% or higher. Time is of the essence when it comes to hardwood floor water damage. The moisture, temperature, and dust layer beneath a wet wood floor can provide an ideal environment for mold and many other problems. You can greatly decrease the amount of water damage if you respond quickly.

Type of Wood Flooring

Before you can determine how to properly dry hardwood, you need to determine what type of wood flooring you have. The main types of hardwood floors are:

  • Strip Wood
  • Plank Wood
  • Engineered Wood
  • Laminate Wood

Amount of Moisture

Moisture affects all floor types differently. A flooded hardwood floor can have up to 40% moisture content and can retain well above the normal amount of moisture for weeks if left to dry on its own. Nails may begin to lift, glue may release causing separation between floor pieces, and tongue and groove floors often cup or buckle when moisture has been absorbed.

Degree of Water Damage

After severe water damage, it is likely that wood floors will have to be replaced. Wood is specifically susceptible to mold growth. Floors that cupped, popped, or cracked may be an indication that the sub-floor has experienced water damage as well. The sub-floor will also need to be replaced if this has occurred.

 

If your flooring can be restored, call American Fire and Water Restoration. We use special, sophisticated drying equipment that forces airflow beneath the surface of the floor, releasing moisture. One of our restoration specialists can thoroughly inspect damage to determine the right plan of action for your flooring.

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