Hardwood floors are one of the most desirable features in a home—elegant, durable, and timeless. But when water enters the picture, that beauty can quickly warp into a costly disaster. Whether it’s from a burst pipe, appliance leak, or storm-related flooding, water damage is the single most common threat to hardwood flooring, and it often goes unnoticed until the damage is extensive.
According to the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA), hardwood flooring absorbs up to 40% of its weight in moisture, leading to swelling, warping, cupping, or buckling. The Insurance Information Institute reports that water damage accounts for nearly 24% of all homeowners' insurance claims, with an average cost of $11,098 per incident—a price that skyrockets when hardwood floors are involved.
In humid climates, water damage becomes even more aggressive due to the moisture-saturated air, making quick response and proper remediation essential.
Water damage can be one of the most frustrating and costly issues homeowners and business owners face. Hardwood floors, in particular, are incredibly vulnerable to water exposure, which can lead to costly repairs if not addressed quickly and correctly.
Understanding how water affects hardwood floors and how to fix the damage can help prevent long-term issues and preserve their beauty. Whether you’re dealing with a small leak or a major flood, it’s important to act fast and get professional help if needed.
In this blog, we’ll dive into how water damage impacts hardwood floors and offer tips on how to fix it.
How Water Damage Ruins Your Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors are often considered one of the most durable flooring options, but they are still susceptible to water damage. When water comes into contact with wood, it causes the material to react in several ways. Here are the main ways water affects hardwood floors:
- Swelling and Warping
Wood is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the environment. When water seeps into hardwood floors, it is absorbed by the wood fibers, causing them to swell. This swelling can lead to visible warping or buckling, where the floorboards lift or curve upwards. The extent of warping depends on the amount of water exposure and how long it remains in contact with the floor.
- Cupping
Cupping occurs when the edges of the floorboards rise higher than the center, giving the floor a "bowl" shape. This happens when one side of the wood absorbs more moisture than the other, causing uneven expansion. Cupping can occur when water is left standing on the floor or when wood is exposed to high humidity levels.
- Cracking and Splitting
When water is left to sit on hardwood floors for extended periods, it can dry out the wood as it evaporates. The moisture loss causes the wood to shrink, leading to cracks or splits in the boards. These cracks are unsightly and can cause further damage to the structural integrity of the floor.
- Discoloration and Staining
Water stains can also occur on hardwood floors, especially when the water is left to sit for a while. The staining may appear as dark spots or rings, and the finish of the floor may deteriorate over time. These stains can be difficult to remove, especially if the water was contaminated or if the finish was compromised.
- Mold and Mildew Growth
If water damage is not addressed quickly, mold and mildew can begin to grow on hardwood floors. This is especially true in areas with high humidity or when water damage has been present for an extended period. Mold not only affects the aesthetic appeal of your floors but can also pose a serious health risk to anyone exposed to it. This is why it's essential to act quickly and call a water damage removal expert in Des Moines when you notice any signs of water damage.
Issues That Make Your Hardwood Floors Prone To Water Damage
Water damage can happen for a variety of reasons. Here are some of the most common causes of water damage to hardwood floors:
- Leaks: Leaking pipes or appliances can cause water to pool on your hardwood floors. A slow leak over time can go unnoticed until the damage becomes severe.
- Flooding: Severe weather, burst pipes, or plumbing disasters can result in significant flooding. Floodwater can quickly saturate hardwood floors and cause extensive damage if not addressed immediately.
- Spills: Accidental spills of water or other liquids (like beverages or cleaning solutions) can seep into the floorboards if not cleaned up quickly. Over time, repeated spills can weaken the integrity of the wood.
- High Humidity: Even without direct water contact, high humidity levels can cause hardwood floors to expand and contract. Over time, this can weaken the floor and lead to warping or other damage.
- Improper Installation: If hardwood floors are installed in an environment with excessive moisture or improper sealing, they may be more prone to water damage.
How to Fix Water-Damaged Hardwood Floors
While water damage to hardwood floors can be serious, the good news is that, depending on the extent of the damage, it can often be repaired. Here are some steps you can take to fix water-damaged hardwood floors:
- Assess the Damage
The first step is to assess the damage to determine the extent of the water exposure. If the water damage is minor, it may be possible to fix it yourself. However, for more extensive damage, it's highly recommended to call a professional commercial or residential water damage restoration service in Des Moines.
Look for signs of swelling, buckling, or discoloration. If the water damage is only superficial, you may be able to salvage the floor by drying it out and repairing the finish. If the damage is deeper, it may require sanding and refinishing.
- Dry the Area
If the floor is still wet, it’s crucial to dry it out as quickly as possible. Use towels, fans, and dehumidifiers to remove the moisture from the area. It’s important to act fast before the moisture seeps deeper into the wood or causes mold growth.
- Sand and Refinish
If your hardwood floor has experienced mild to moderate water damage, sanding and refinishing may be necessary. Sanding will remove the top layer of the wood, helping to eliminate any surface discoloration or stains. Once the floor is sanded smooth, you can apply a fresh coat of finish to restore its appearance and protect it from future damage.
- Replace Damaged Boards
In cases where the water damage is severe, the affected floorboards may need to be replaced. If the boards are warped or cracked beyond repair, it’s best to remove and replace them. A professional emergency water damage restoration company in Des Moines can help you source replacement boards that match the existing ones and ensure a seamless repair.
- Treat for Mold and Mildew
If mold or mildew has started to grow, it’s essential to treat the affected area to prevent further spread. Mold can be harmful to health, so it’s best to consult with a professional who can safely remove it and disinfect the area.
- Install Moisture Barriers
To prevent future water damage, consider installing moisture barriers or vapor barriers beneath the flooring. These barriers help reduce the impact of humidity and moisture, keeping your hardwood floors in better condition for longer.
When to Call Professionals for Water Damage Restoration
Water damage restoration is often best left to professionals, especially if the damage is extensive or if you're unsure how to proceed. A water damage removal expert will have the necessary tools and expertise to assess and mitigate the damage. They can dry out the area, repair the floors, and even help with mold removal if needed.
A commercial water damage restoration company in Des Moines can help with water extraction, drying, dehumidification, and any necessary repairs. Whether you’re dealing with a residential or commercial property, it’s essential to get expert help to minimize damage and reduce the risk of further complications.
Conclusion- Protect Your Hardwood Floors From Water Damage
Water damage can seriously affect the appearance and integrity of your hardwood floors, but with the right knowledge and timely action, it’s possible to fix the damage and restore your floors to their former glory. If you notice signs of water damage, it’s important to act quickly—whether through DIY methods or by calling in a professional.
If you're located in Des Moines and are dealing with water damage, Rainbow Restoration of Des Moines offers reliable residential water damage restoration and commercial water damage restoration in Des Moines. Our experienced team can handle water damage removal, mold remediation, and all the necessary repairs to get your floors back in top condition.
Don’t wait for water damage to worsen—contact Rainbow Restoration of Des Moines today for all your water damage restoration needs! We’re here to help restore your home or business quickly and efficiently, ensuring that your hardwood floors remain beautiful and safe for years to come.
