How to Protect Hardwood Floors From Water Damage

Did you know that you only have about 24-48 hours to dry hardwood floors after they’ve been exposed to water? While this does help prevent mold, it may not protect floors from warping or other problems.

The best way to protect floors from water damage is to practice consistent hardwood floor maintenance and to focus on preventing damage. Read on to learn how to keep your floors and home looking their best. 

Start With a Waterproof Coating

The best thing you can do for hardwood floor care is to have a waterproof coating applied during installation. The right coating will protect floors from water damage by preventing water absorption into the wood fibers.

Control Indoor Humidity

Humidity can make hardwood floor maintenance difficult, but a lack of humidity is problematic too. The key is to find a balance between the two and control humidity in your home.

We recommend using a humidifier in dry climates or during dry seasons to prevent shrinkage. If you live in a wet climate or experience wet seasons, try using a dehumidifier to prevent mold and warping from excessive moisture. 

Respond to Spills Quickly

Even small spills can lead to problems with floor materials like wood. The longer a spill sits on your floor, the greater the chances of it absorbing into the material are. Wipe up the spill and open a window for optimal drying.

Keep Up With Hardwood Floor Maintenance

If you want to protect floors from water damage, it’s important to keep up with hardwood floor maintenance. Well-kept floors are less vulnerable to damage and don’t wear as quickly. 

Clean Floors Regularly 

Create a schedule for cleaning your floor if you find yourself neglecting hardwood floor care. Try sweeping or vacuuming daily to prevent scratches from dust and debris. Stick to mopping once to twice monthly or as needed. 

Use the Right Products

Make sure you have the right products for floor cleaning before starting. You can use cleaners intended for hardwood floors or a mild detergent. Make sure you also use a damp mop instead of a wet one to minimize moisture.

Refinish and Reseal as Needed

Even the best hardwood floor finish and sealant need to be touched up to prevent water damage. This can be done as needed or every 5 to 10 years depending on the amount of traffic your floors see. 

How to Handle Water Damage

If it’s too late for prevention and you’re wondering how to handle existing water damage, consider working with a professional. The right tools and techniques are important if your home has existing water damage.

Our team has everything needed to determine the best course of action and to get started on floor cleaning. They can also help with preventing future problems such as mold and identifying areas of high moisture.  

Keep Your Home Looking Great

Hardwood floor maintenance is one of the best tools you can use to protect floors in your home. Hardwood floor care starts with installation and should continue for as long as you have them to prevent water damage.

If you’re dealing with water damage or want to learn more about prevention, contact us today.