Wooden floors add warmth and elegance to almost any home, but with it comes some risks if not well maintained. Some of the dangers include water damage from permeation into the wood, swelling, warping, staining or development of fungus and mold. Keeping the wooden floors dry can be just as important to maintain their beauty and longevity.
1. Clean up spills immediately
- Stains can be prevented by cleaning up spills in the easiest way. Whether it is a cup of water or an accident in the kitchen, the likelihood of letting liquids sit on the surface of the wood causes moisture to penetrate through the material, leading to stains, warping, and swelling.
- Make use of soft cloth or paper towel to absorb spills the moment they spill.
- Do not move wet objects, such as shoes and an umbrella, over the floor.
- Mop with a dry or slightly damp cloth instead of a wet mop to avoid excess moisture.
2. Utilize Rugs and Mats in Vulnerable Places
- Some places in the house, like the kitchen, bathroom, and doors, have higher possibilities of direct exposure to water. It is best to place rugs or mats on these spots to trap the excess moisture before it hits the wood flooring.
- Waterproof mats should be installed near sinks, bathtubs, and showers so water does not splash onto the floor.
- Entryway rugs will capture moisture as well as dust particles from shoes, especially in rainy seasons or after snow.
- Spills or drops of food and liquids can spill on floor mats when cooking or rinsing dishes than on the wooden flooring directly reducing the chance of water pooling on the floor.
- The rugs and mats should be non-slip backed to avoid slipping.
3. Control of Indoor Humidity
- Humidity is a silent cause for damage to wood by water, especially in areas with a humid climate. Wooden floorboards absorb moisture from the air causing the boards to swell or warp.
- Humidity causes wood to dry and shrink which creates gaps between floorboards.
- Use a dehumidifier in rooms where humidity levels exceed the limits.
- Keep indoor humidity in the range of 30-50% to withstand and maintain the wooden floors.
- Inspect for any potential ventilation issues in damp areas of home, such as bathrooms and kitchens, where there is a tendency for warm steam and moisture concentration.
4. Employ Water-Resistant Finish
- The best method of avoiding water damage to wood floors is to use a water-resistant finish. A finish is like a protective clothing for the wood that prevents moisture from penetrating into the surface.
- A polyurethane finish provides a durable finish that is clear and hard for protection. It excels well in kitchens, entryways, and areas that will see a lot of foot traffic or moisture.
- Oil-based finishes provide a rich, glossy appearance, are durable but take a long time to dry.
- Water-based finishes provide fast drying, low odor, and friendliness to the environment.
- Use water-based finishes where one needs quicker application.
- Apply the finish periodically again (every few years, depending on how much wear it gets) for it to retain its effectiveness, make it look fantastic and effectively coat your floors for an even longer time.
5. Fill Other Cracks and Gaps
- Water seeps through the joints between wood floorboards or cracks around baseboards. Under the floor, that water can create hidden damage. Sealing such spaces prevents moisture from ever becoming a long-term problem.
- Use wood fillers to fill and seal any obvious gaps between floorboards.
- Seal the edges of the flooring wherever the wood meets a wall pipe or other fixture.
- Check worn-out caulk or sealant, and redo if necessary for maintaining a watertight seal.
6. Avoid Steam Cleaning and Overuse of Water During Cleaning
- Many people believe steam cleaning is safe for wooden floors but holds the potential for great water damage in the long run.
- Steam could seep into the wood through high heat and moisture leading to swelling, warping, and deterioration over time.
- Stick to dry mopping or sweeping for cleaning daily dirt and dust.
- Use a mildly damp mop with a wood-safe cleaner for deeper cleaning and ensure all standing water is gone.
- Do not use too much water when cleaning, as even small amounts of moisture penetrate the seams and damage the wood.
7. Regular Maintenance and Inspections
- It can help solve small problems before they become the biggest headaches.
- Cleaning and resealing to prevent the floors from water damage is one of the routine maintenance measures.
- Moisture damage includes swelling, discoloration, or warping, and may be checked around the piping fixtures in sinks, refrigerators, and dishwashers, for potential leakages that are likely to hit the floor.
- Seal the floors wherever necessary, particularly in moist areas to ensure that this protective sheet remains in position.
8. Pets-Related Water Damage
- Pets also lead to water damage, mainly in relation to water spilled from their bowls of food, or accidents in the house.
- Keep the floors safe by using water-resistant mats underneath the pet’s feeding bowls and immediately clean up whenever messes occur.
- Use elevated pet bowls or mats with lips to avoid splashes or spills.
- Trim their nails so that they don’t grow too long and scratch the wood, which allows moisture to get into the wood.
The prevention of water damage on wooden floors is achieved through timely action, proper maintenance, and the use of right protective measures. This may include cleaning spills immediately, controlling the level of humidity indoors, and using a finish that is resistant to water. The proper care will help to maintain structural integrity while providing the warmth and elegance wooden floors bring to a house.
