It’s critical to understand the appearance of hardwood floor water damage because wet flooring could indicate a much greater underlying problem, such as an unknown plumbing leak. Here are some things to check for when attempting to detect indicators of hardwood floor water damage.
Stains Caused by Moisture
Examine your wood floors carefully. The color should be pretty continuous from one board to the next, so if you notice dark stains anywhere, you have a problem. This is a clear indication of water damage. The wood may even seem moist to the touch. Even if the wood is now dry, more water damage could occur until the source of the leak is found and repaired.
Wood that is warped or detached
The damage to your hardwood floors will become more visible over time. The boards, for example, may swell and warp, resulting in uneven walking surfaces. The wood may also separate from the subflooring, creating an ugly tripping hazard.
Rotting Wood
Long-term water damage results in wood decay. This weakens your floors and subfloors, putting the structural integrity of your home in jeopardy. Unless the damage happens in an infrequently visited room or vacation home, it is unlikely that hardwood floor water damage will advance to this stage without your knowledge.
The Most Common Sources of Hardwood Floor Water Damage
Water can damage your hardwood floors from a variety of sources. Here are a few of the most common offenders:
Flooding and storm damage: Heavy rains can cause floodwater to sneak in under your doors and fill your window wells. Rising groundwater is another typical source of basement flooding. In a hurricane or tornado, flying debris might break your windows and send water gushing inside.
Leaky appliances: If you discover a puddle of water pouring from behind your dishwasher, refrigerator, or washing machine, you have a leaky appliance. If the leak is minor enough, you may see ceiling damage in the room below, prompting you to relocate the appliance to inspect the floor.
Plumbing issues: Plumbing leaks are caused by more than just appliances. Loose pipe connections can also cause a gradual drip, drip, drip, causing damage to your hardwood floors and other structural components until the leak is discovered and repaired. Broken pipes can also occur, inflicting more serious damage that is rarely overlooked.
Sewer backups: The most messed-up sort of water damage is caused by a clogged sewer system. This not only saturates your hardwood floors, but it also brings dangerous toxins into your home. Because of the health risks involved, sewer damage cleanup should always be left to a licensed professional.
Whatever the cause of your hardwood floor water damage, acting fast is critical if you want to minimize the impact on your property. Turn to Tier Restoration for assistance! We are a seasoned water damage restoration company that serves homeowners and businesses in Nashville and the neighboring areas. Please call or email us online today to get the services you require.