When water damage occurs in your home, it can be frustrating and expensive. You may try to find as many ways as possible to save and restore damaged materials. So, how do you know if you can save your floors or if you need to replace them?
The water damage isn’t extensive
If the water that was covering your floors is quick to dissipate, your damages may be minor. However, if the water did not dissipate quickly, you will most likely need to replace your floors. A good tip: if your sub-flooring looks swollen or lifted, you should replace your floors.
The water is clean
If the water that was covering your floors is clean, then it will not pose a threat to you or your family. However, if the water is black or dirty looking, it probably contains harmful bacteria. You should almost always replace your floors to ensure your safety.
The area dries within 24 hours
If the water that was on your floors is dry within 24 hours, you are most likely not going to have mold damage. A good way to prevent mold is to use a fan or dehumidifier in the affected area. Always make sure that your floors are completely dry before you begin repairs. It is important to keep in mind, that even if the surface is dry, water can still be trapped under your floor covering. After an incident, wood and tile floors often have trapped water underneath. To ensure that you do not have trapped moisture, it is important to have someone test your floors with a water meter.
If you have suffered water damage to your home, call us at (615) 898-8258.