Water-damaged hardwood Floors Require Professional Care from Midlothian Restoration Technicians
When hardwood floors are exposed to water, the drying process requires specific procedures and equipment to prevent long-term structural damage successfully. Hardwood, unlike other flooring materials, is highly sensitive to moisture. At Lightspeed Restoration of Richmond West, we understand the unique challenges that come with restoring water-damaged hardwood floors in the Midlothian area, and our specialized water mitigation approach ensures consistent results.
How Water Damage Affects Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors are especially vulnerable to water damage because they naturally absorb moisture, leading to swelling, warping, and buckling. Over time, if the water isn't removed quickly, the wood planks may cup or crown, altering the floor's structural integrity. Warping occurs when the moisture content varies between the top and bottom of the wood planks, causing one side to expand more than the other. If left untreated, this can cause more severe damage and may require total replacement of damaged boards and even subflooring. Therefore, acting quickly with professional water restoration services is crucial to saving your hardwood floors and the subflooring underneath.
Equipment Used for Drying Hardwood Floors
Restoring water-damaged hardwood requires advanced tools and techniques to control moisture and prevent further deterioration. Our WRTs (Water Restoration Technicians) use industry-standard equipment, including drying mats, which extract water trapped below the surface of hardwood floors, drawing out moisture from beneath the planks to prevent cupping or crowning. Air movers are carefully placed in the affected area every 10 to 16 linear feet to increase airflow across the surface. These air movers work with dehumidifiers to accelerate the drying process and minimize the risk of warping, cupping, or creaking floorboards. Each tool is pivotal for restoring your hardwood floors and re-establishing normal moisture levels before more significant structural damage can occur.
Lightspeed Restoration's Water Mitigation Process
When you call Lightspeed Restoration of Richmond West for water damage, we follow a systematic water cleanup process to ensure thorough restoration. First, we assess the extent of the damage using moisture meters and infrared cameras, identifying areas that need immediate attention. Controlled demolition may be necessary if the subfloor has been compromised, and we take great care to remove only what is required. After extraction, drying begins. We strategically place dehumidifiers and air movers around the affected areas to restore moisture balance. During this process, we also implement odor control techniques to eliminate musty smells caused by water saturation. As IICRC-certified professionals, we adhere to the highest standards in the industry to protect your hardwood floors and home from further damage.
Whether extracting water, controlling moisture, or performing controlled demolition, our team of experts can readily handle the complexities of water restoration for hardwood floors 24/7. If your hardwood floors have been damaged by water, reach out to Lightspeed Restoration of Richmond West at (804) 335-1150. We'll assess the situation and begin the water mitigation process right away to save your floors and restore your Midlothian home.