Flooding and Engineered Hardwood Flooring: What to Expect and How to Recover

Engineered hardwood flooring has become a popular choice among homeowners for its durability, versatility, and resistance to humidity compared to traditional hardwood. However, like any wood-based product, engineered hardwood flooring can still suffer from water damage, especially when exposed to flooding. While it has better water resistance than solid hardwood, flooding poses a significant threat to its integrity.

In this blog, we’ll explore how engineered hardwood reacts to flooding, what you can do to protect it, and how to recover if your floors have been affected by water.

What Happens to Engineered Hardwood During Flooding?

Engineered hardwood is constructed from layers of plywood or fiberboard beneath a real wood veneer. The top layer, made of genuine hardwood, provides the appearance of solid wood, while the core layers increase stability and moisture resistance. However, despite this construction, engineered hardwood isn’t waterproof. When exposed to flooding, it can still suffer from the following issues:

1. Delamination: The most significant threat to engineered hardwood is delamination, where the top hardwood veneer separates from the plywood or fiberboard layers below. This can occur when water seeps into the flooring and weakens the adhesive bonds that hold the layers together.

2. Swelling and Warping: Prolonged exposure to water can cause the plywood or fiberboard layers to swell, leading to warping and uneven flooring. Engineered hardwood typically resists minor changes in humidity, but flooding can overwhelm its protective layers.

3. Cupping: Similar to solid hardwood, engineered wood floors can experience cupping when the edges of the boards absorb more water than the center. This results in raised edges and a concave shape to the flooring planks.

4. Mold and Mildew: Flooding creates the ideal environment for mold and mildew growth, especially underneath the surface layers of engineered hardwood. This not only causes unpleasant odors but can also lead to health issues if left unchecked.

Steps to Take After Flooding

If your engineered hardwood flooring has been flooded, time is of the essence. Follow these steps to mitigate the damage and possibly save your floors:

1. Remove Standing Water: The first priority is to remove any standing water immediately. A wet/dry vacuum is ideal for this task, but towels or mops can also help if the water is minimal. It’s important to get to the water as quickly as possible to prevent it from seeping into the subfloor.

2. Dry the Area: Use fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows to help dry out the space. This will promote faster evaporation and reduce the likelihood of moisture being absorbed by the wood. If possible, remove a few boards to help air circulate beneath the flooring.

3. Inspect for Damage: Once the floor is dry, inspect the planks for signs of delamination, swelling, or warping. If the veneer has begun to peel or the planks are severely warped, they may need to be replaced. Less severe damage, like minor cupping, can often be repaired with professional sanding and refinishing.

4. Look for Mold: Mold and mildew can quickly develop in damp conditions. Check the flooring for any signs of fungal growth, particularly underneath the boards and along the seams. If mold is present, it’s essential to address it immediately with a mold-killing solution or hire a professional to handle the remediation.

Can You Save Engineered Hardwood Floors After Flooding?

The ability to salvage your engineered hardwood floors after flooding depends on several factors:

• Speed of Response: The quicker you remove the water and begin the drying process, the better your chances of saving your floors. Engineered hardwood can withstand short-term exposure to water, but long-term exposure increases the risk of irreversible damage.

• Type of Water: Clean water from a burst pipe is less damaging than floodwaters that may contain contaminants like mud, sewage, or chemicals. If your floors were exposed to contaminated water, they will likely need to be replaced for health and safety reasons.

• Extent of Damage: Minor swelling or cupping can sometimes be addressed through professional repair methods, such as sanding and refinishing. However, if the flooring has delaminated or warped significantly, replacement may be the only option.

Preventing Water Damage to Engineered Hardwood

Prevention is the best way to protect your engineered hardwood floors from flooding or water damage. Here are some tips to help keep your flooring safe:

1. Water-Resistant Finishes: While engineered hardwood is more water-resistant than solid hardwood, applying a water-resistant finish can add an extra layer of protection. This is especially useful in moisture-prone areas like kitchens, entryways, or basements.

2. Use Area Rugs and Mats: Placing rugs or mats in high-traffic areas near sinks, bathtubs, or entryways can absorb water and prevent it from sitting on the floor. Always choose water-resistant or machine-washable rugs for easy maintenance.

3. Monitor Humidity Levels: Engineered hardwood is more stable than solid wood, but it’s still sensitive to changes in humidity. Maintain indoor humidity levels between 30-50% to reduce the risk of warping or cupping due to moisture.

4. Prepare for Flood Risks: If you live in an area prone to flooding, take steps to protect your floors. Elevate appliances like dishwashers or washing machines that could leak, and install sump pumps in basements to help manage excess water.

Conclusion

While engineered hardwood flooring is designed to offer better resistance to moisture than solid wood, it’s still vulnerable to flooding. Quick action is critical to minimizing damage, but even with fast intervention, some flooring may need to be replaced. By understanding how flooding impacts engineered hardwood and taking preventative measures, you can protect your floors and prolong their lifespan. If you do experience flooding, consider consulting Southwest Floor Design to assess the damage and explore the best options for restoration or replacement.

Protect your home by staying proactive about moisture management, and ensure your engineered hardwood flooring lasts for years to come!