When you invest in new flooring, the last thing on your mind is the potential for water damage. But the reality is, water can be an insidious enemy, slowly creeping into cracks and crevices, causing significant damage over time. Whether it’s from a leaky appliance, an unnoticed spill, or even humidity, water can wreak havoc on your beautiful new floors if not properly guarded against.

Luckily, awareness goes a long way. A few steps now can ensure your floors stay pristine for years to come.

You’ve Never Considered Water Damaged Flooring … You Should

If you own a house, you’re going to deal with water. When the kids drag in snow and ice on their boots. When a pipe to the dishwasher breaks and floods the kitchen. When you drop a pan of water on the floor.

Yes, you might think of it as you’re finalizing your remodeling plans. We often choose flooring based on factors like foot traffic and ease of maintenance. But water can be one of the most significant challenges your floors will face. Whether it’s a high-moisture area like the kitchen or bathroom or an unexpected incident in any other part of the house, water can quickly turn a well-considered flooring choice into a costly mistake.

No matter where in your home you’ll be adding new flooring, it’s worth a few minutes of consideration to consider how the materials you’re thinking of will stand up to potential water exposure and what steps you can take to protect them.

• Choose Water-Resistant Materials: Some flooring materials are designed to withstand moisture. Options like luxury vinyl, tile, or engineered hardwood are excellent choices for areas prone to spills or humidity. These materials are less likely to absorb water, reducing the risk of warping or damage over time.
• Seal Your Floors Properly: For materials like hardwood or stone, applying a high-quality sealant can create an additional barrier against water. This sealant helps to prevent water from seeping into the cracks and crevices, maintaining the integrity and appearance of your floors.

• Control Humidity Levels: In areas with high humidity, consider using a dehumidifier to keep moisture levels in check. Excessive humidity can lead to condensation, which can damage flooring over time, especially in basements or bathrooms.

• Regular Maintenance Checks: Nothing works like avoiding potential problems altogether. Conduct regular inspections of areas prone to water exposure, such as near sinks, dishwashers, and windows. Catching leaks or potential problems early can prevent more significant issues down the line.
• Use Rugs and Mats: As you finalize your flooring choices, place rugs or mats in high-risk areas, like entryways and under sinks, to help protect your floors from water and dirt. These protective layers catch excess moisture before it reaches the floor, extending the life of your flooring.

How Bad Is Water Damage?

Nothing compares to water damage. Its effects can be both immediate and long-lasting. Even a small amount of water can cause significant problems if it isn’t addressed promptly. Over time, the damage can escalate, leading to costly repairs or even the need for complete flooring replacement.

Warping and Buckling

When water seeps into the flooring, especially with wood-based materials, it can cause the fibers to swell. This swelling leads to warping, where the boards become uneven, and buckling, where the flooring lifts from the subfloor. These issues not only ruin the appearance of your floors but can also create trip hazards and other safety concerns.

Staining and Discoloration

Water exposure can lead to unsightly stains and discoloration, particularly in materials like hardwood, carpet, and certain types of stone. These stains are often difficult to remove and can leave your floors looking aged and worn far sooner than they should.

Mold and Mildew Growth

Persistent moisture can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew to thrive. Not only can mold cause serious health issues, but it can also deteriorate the flooring material itself. This is especially problematic with porous materials like carpet and wood, where mold can grow beneath the surface, making it difficult to detect and remove.

Weakening of the Structure

Over time, water damage can compromise the structural integrity of your flooring. This is particularly concerning with materials like laminate and engineered wood, which can start to break down and lose their stability when exposed to moisture. In severe cases, the subfloor may also be affected, leading to even more extensive damage.

Odor

As water seeps into the flooring and subfloor, it can create persistent, unpleasant odors. These smells often result from mold growth or the breakdown of organic materials in the flooring. Once these odors set in, they can be challenging to eliminate, often requiring professional cleaning or replacement.

The Right Kind Of Wood – Wood Floors Made To Avoid Water Damage

You love hardwood. Wood floors add warmth and elegance to any home. But they can be vulnerable to water damage if you don’t choose the right type.

Good news: Manufacturers now provide homeowners with the classic good looks you want and the durability you need in your busy life. Consider wood flooring options designed to better resist moisture and keep your floors looking beautiful for years to come.

Engineered Hardwood

Unlike solid hardwood, engineered hardwood is made of multiple layers of wood veneer bonded together, with a top layer of genuine hardwood. This construction makes it more stable and less prone to warping and swelling when exposed to moisture. Engineered hardwood can be a great choice for areas like kitchens, basements, or bathrooms where humidity and spills are more common.

Water-Resistant Finishes

Some wood floors are treated with water-resistant finishes that provide an extra layer of protection against moisture. These finishes can help repel water and prevent it from soaking into the wood. Look for wood flooring options that come pre-finished with these protective coatings or consider having them applied after installation.

Wood-Look Alternatives

If you love the look of wood but are concerned about water damage, consider alternatives like wood-look tile or luxury vinyl planks. These materials mimic the appearance of wood but offer superior resistance to water, making them ideal for bathrooms, laundry rooms, and other moisture-prone areas.

You have choices.

If water damage is of concern, and you want new floors that will stand the test of time, no matter what comes up in your daily life, open your eyes to new potential. There are many options available to you today.

We can help you find it. Stop by today, and we’ll give you options you’ll love. Bring home a few samples and find one that works perfectly with your decor.

We know you’re going to love the look. We’re excited to see what possibilities we can come up with for your home.