Hardwood floors are timeless and never lose their charm. Many designers and homeowners still choose them for their beauty and versatility. However, hardwood is also prone to water damage if not given the correct care and attention. Even if the property is not in a hurricane or flood-prone area, additional moisture can harm it. Dripping pipes and other mishaps can cause standing water or significant water damage. If overlooked, you might say goodbye to the floors soon.
How Water Affects Hardwood Floors
Wood is made of fibers that quickly absorb and retain water. There are clear signs that show where the damage may be coming from. Knowing how to spot these can save your floors from irreparable damage.
Cupping
Cupping means the edges of the floorboards lift, and the middle is lower. It is the very first sign indicating a moisture issue in the floors. It generally means that moisture or direct water originates from below the floorboards. Since the bottom gets wetter, it swells, and the top curls inwards. It may indicate a broken pipe or extra humidity in the crawlspace below.
Crowning
When the middle of the floorboards is arched and the edges slope downwards, this is called crowning. It usually suggests that the water content at the top is higher than at the bottom. The wood soaks up wetness and reacts by swelling, which causes crowning. Recurring direct contact with water also causes crowning. This damage can be found where there are leaking sinks, entry and exit points that get into contact with water or snow or defective appliances that utilize water.
Mold
Aside from the top and bottom surface areas, hardwood floors still have other infiltration points. No matter how well-finished the floors are, water can find its way between seams or any coating breaks. If there is moisture left, mold can do more damage. It can stain the wood, cause warping, and cause rotting.
How to Save your Hardwood Floors
You can clean the floors using a shop vacuum cleaner and scrub the floors with detergent. Drying is essential and needs proper equipment. If you think that this is a simple procedure, think again. If you are unsure, consider getting expert help. Hiring the services of a remediation company may even save you a significant amount of money and spare you from the hassle of rebuilding floors. Here’s what’s in store:
Eliminating Water
Equipment that can shorten work time guarantees quick elimination of standing water. Specialists know where to look to ensure that damage will not continue. For property restoration in Jupiter, you may search online for the best companies that do water mitigation.
Cleaning Surfaces
Remediation specialists utilize heavy-duty cleaning agents to eradicate dirt and oils and remove odors. Without the use of more water, soil and other debris can be removed, too.
Drying All Moisture
Industrial-grade fans, blowers, and dehumidifiers all help eradicate moisture. Drying must be quick and extensive to prevent further seepage that can cause more damage. If you need quick action, you may search for a West Palm Beach restoration company that has the best equipment.
Treating Mold
In the locations that reveal mold growth, professionals clean them with cleaning agents, which will help remove further development. These cleaning agents will also eliminate the smell that comes with mold growth.
