Water damage is a common issue for hardwood floors. Given that wood is porous, even a minor water leak can cause significant swelling, warping, or staining. At Disaster Restoration Services, we specialize in restoring water-damaged floors, ensuring every inch of your hardwood is treated, dried, and protected to prevent future issues.
Here’s our step-by-step process for restoring water-damaged hardwood floors:
1. Assessing the Damage
Water intrusion impacts hardwood floors in several ways, from swelling and warping to visible water stains. Our experts thoroughly inspect the floors to determine whether they are salvageable. Depending on the extent of the damage, we identify areas that may need replacement or intense treatment to restore your floors to their best condition.
2. Water Extraction and Drying
Once the assessment is complete, we begin by extracting any standing water with professional-grade vacuums. After the visible water is removed, we use dehumidifiers and industrial fans to pull moisture out of the wood and air. This drying process is closely monitored because drying too quickly can lead to cracking or further warping. We take great care to maintain the perfect balance for optimal results.
3. Treating Water Stains
Water stains, especially on lighter woods, can be a real challenge. We use chemical treatments like oxalic acid to address black water stains, which helps lighten and remove discoloration caused by prolonged water exposure. This treatment restores the appearance of your floors, bringing back the natural beauty of the wood.
4. Sanding and Refinishing
Once dry and free from stains, our team sands the affected areas to eliminate any remaining scratches, warping, or unevenness. Afterward, we refinish the floors, applying a fresh stain and protective coating to restore their original look and durability.
5. Applying Antimicrobial Treatments
Water-damaged wood is especially susceptible to mold. To prevent this, we apply antimicrobial treatments that penetrate the wood and create a barrier against mold growth. This step is critical for maintaining a healthy indoor environment, especially if the wood has been exposed to moisture for an extended period.
6. Final Deodorization
After all restoration steps are completed, we conduct a final deodorization to ensure that your floors are as fresh as they are restored. This final touch removes any musty odors that may have lingered due to the water exposure.
At Disaster Restoration Services, we’re committed to making your floors look, feel, and function as they should—free from water damage and future threats. Hardwood floors are a beautiful feature in any home, and we’re here to keep them that way, no matter what water damage comes their way. Contact us today to begin restoring your water-damaged floors.