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Unfortunately water and wood were
never a good mix, but some
precautions to insure the basic
water associated problems do not
occur may be useful. If you're lucky
enough to find our information
before that hardwood floor project
this could be a lifesaver. For
others that have found us because
they've encountered problems,
solutions are included.
Minor Water Spills
Toto has knocked over his water bowl
leaving water sitting on the floor
overnight. In most cases this is not
severe, but does require a drying
out process. Don't be alarmed, it
may only be a bad memory in a week
or so. Potted plants can also be a
concern, especially if soil and
water mix and soak into any hardwood
floor. If not caught early,
permanent staining can occur with
the ideal solution being a complete
removal and reinstall of boards in
the area. Christmas tree stands are
often on the complaint list at the
beginning of the year.
Dishwasher or Washing Machine
Leak
Depending on the extent, the source
must be identified. Not
only is damage to the floor a
concern, but potential mold growth
can accumulate if not looked at
quickly. Some water damage problems
can be extremely minor but can cause
mold problems. Discolored boards in
unusual areas should be a cause of
concern. Sometimes water doesn't
just sit around the affected area,
it travels by way of gravity to the
lowest point. If it sits there long
enough discoloration may occur
Precautions For New Floor Owners
Call in a reputable plumber and not
your friend Bob down the street who
works as a computer programmer.
Reinstalling new water lines and
connections near hardwood floor
areas can be a life saver. Included
are ice maker lines in
refrigerators, water lines to
dishwashers. Materials wear out,
problems can be avoided.
Other areas of water intrusion can
be around windows, doors, and
baseboard. Look for yellowing or
discolored areas and find the
sources before any flooring project.
If the older floor has been carpeted
sometimes water damage cannot be
seen until the carpeting is removed.
Fido Likes To Pee...Everywhere
For new owners of older homes with
hardwood floors that have been
covered with carpet finding massive
urine
stains can be disheartening.
How can you find out if the floor is
ruined? This may sound off wallish,
but it just came to me. You could
sneak your own animals into the home
you're looking at and see what they
find. Animals are drawn to urine.
How extensive the damage may be is
always uncertain unless the carpet
is removed.
Unfortunately extensive urine stains
cannot be repaired. Smaller areas on
the other hand can be, but the only
real solution without it being
noticeable is finding similar aged
material that was used for the
original installation. Local salvage
yards may be another option or
perhaps a home of similar age in the
neighborhood is being torn down.
Often material can be removed from
closets, where new can be installed.
For any type of water damage
allowing time to dry out is
important. Each and every wood floor
will take water damage differently.
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