What do you think is the worst thing that can happen to your laminate flooring? The answer is water damage. When you have a home, anything can happen and it is best to be prepared for any scenario. The worst-case scenario is when you discover water damage on your laminate floor, especially if it’s from an unexpected source such as a water leak from the boiler or humidifier. Neglecting small signs of water damage will lead to worse consequences – permanent damage. Even light water damage requires immediate attention because a thorough inspection will reveal the extent of the problem and avoid further risks like mold growth and structural failure. Take note of these simple steps on how to repair laminate flooring water damage.
How To Repair Laminate Flooring Water Damage?
Repair laminate flooring with dry powder
If your laminate is only slightly wet, you can repair it with a dry water-resistant powder. This powder bonds with the surface, forming a protective barrier against water. The result is a laminate floor that is as good as new. If the laminate is still very wet, however, it won’t work. You’ll have to try one of the other methods on this list to repair laminate flooring water damage.
Repair laminate flooring with epoxy resin
If your laminate flooring is moderately wet, you can repair it with epoxy resin. Epoxy resin is a two-part putty that hardens with heat. To use it, mix equal amounts of putty and hardener. Once the putty has turned into a thick paste, spread it over the damaged floor. Let it cure for an hour or two, and then sand and repair it. Some epoxy resins have a UV inhibitor, which can help prevent the laminate from becoming discolored as it dries out. If your laminate is still wet, however, it won’t work. You’ll have to try one of the other methods on this list to repair laminate flooring water damage.
Repair laminate flooring with polyurethane
If your laminate is only moderately wet, you can repair it with polyurethane resin. You’ll need to use a thin, water-based polyurethane and a hardening catalyst. Brush the mixture over the laminate floor and let it dry. Then sand and repair the laminate. Polyurethane has a UV inhibitor, which means it can help prevent the laminate from becoming discolored as it dries out. If your laminate is still wet, however, it won’t work. You’ll have to try one of the other methods on this list to repair laminate flooring water damage.
Repair laminate flooring with Krystal Kote
If your laminate is only slightly wet, you can repair it with Krystal Kote. This is an epoxy resin that comes in a can. Krystal Kote dries in about an hour and forms an invisible protective barrier. The result is a laminate floor that is as good as new. Because Krystal Kote is a two-part epoxy, it can be used to repair laminate flooring that is moderately wet. If your laminate is still wet, however, it won’t work. You’ll have to try one of the other methods on this list to repair laminate flooring water damage.
Repair laminate flooring with epoxy resin and sanding sealer
You can repair laminate flooring that is moderately wet with epoxy resin and a sanding sealer. First, you’ll need to mix equal parts epoxy resin and a sanding sealer. Then, spread the mixture over the laminate and let it cure for an hour or two. Finally, sand and repair the laminate. Like Krystal Kote, epoxy resin can be used to repair laminate flooring that is only slightly wet. If your laminate is still wet, however, it won’t work. You’ll have to try one of the other methods on this list to repair laminate flooring water damage.
How Do Identify The Source Of Water Damage In Laminate Flooring?
- Visual inspection – Check for water seepage and missing or damaged flooring. You can notice discoloration in the laminate flooring and warped or wrinkled flooring. If water spots are visible in your flooring, then it is most likely caused by a water leak
- Feel the floor – The surface of the flooring should feel dry. If there are wet spots, then laminate flooring water damage is the cause.
- Touch the floor – If the flooring is sticky, mushy, or soft, then it is highly probable that water has entered the flooring.
- Hear the floor – If you hear a squishy sound when walking on the floor, it is likely that the laminate flooring is damaged.
- Smell the floor – If there is a musty or moldy smell coming from the laminate flooring, then it is likely that the water has caused damage to the flooring.
How To Prevent Laminate Flooring Water Damage?
Change Shower Heads
One of the easiest ways to prevent water damage is by changing your shower head. While this might seem like a minor thing, it can make a huge difference in your overall experience of water usage. Using a low-flow shower head as well as limiting the amount of time you spend in the shower will significantly reduce your water usage. This will, in turn, help you prevent water damage in your home. Not only will changing your shower head saves you money but it will also limit the amount of water that goes down the drain. This, in turn, will help you prevent water damage in your home caused by excess water.
Repair Leaks Immediately
Most people who have laminate flooring in their homes have also installed hardwood due to the ease of maintenance that comes with it. However, they do not realize that they must also take care of it just as they would with hardwood. There are many ways in which a laminate floor can be damaged. For example, water leakage is one of the most common causes of damage. It can also be one of the easiest to prevent. All you need to do is repair the leak as soon as you find it. If you don’t, the water will damage your flooring. It will also create a situation where mold can grow and pose a health hazard for your family.
Use the Right Flooring Material
Another way to prevent water damage is by using the right flooring material. While laminated flooring is a popular choice among homeowners, it is not the best flooring material for the wet areas of your home. While laminated flooring is quite durable and easy to maintain, it is not water resistant. On the other hand, hardwood is water resistant. This means it will be able to withstand the water better. Therefore, if you have installed laminated flooring, you should use it in areas that don’t receive constant water damage. Areas such as the living room, for example, are ideal for laminated flooring. But the kitchen and the bathroom are not.
Choose the Right Flooring Type
Not only should you choose the right flooring material, but you should also choose the type of flooring that will be ideal for your home. For example, if you have a family that regularly spills things, you should consider installing acrylic flooring. Instead of installing laminate, acrylic is a good choice since it is easy to clean and maintain. Furthermore, it is resistant to water and won’t be damaged too easily. This type of flooring is ideal for the kitchen since it can deal with high temperatures and is resistant to spills and stains. Furthermore, acrylic is easy to clean and maintain. You can even clean it with a vacuum cleaner.
Maintain Your Flooring
Maintaining your flooring is very important if you want to prevent water damage. For example, if you clean your flooring on a regular basis, you will be able to prevent stains from forming on it. As a result, you will be able to prevent damage from occurring. If you want to prevent water damage from occurring, you should clean your flooring regularly. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove dirt and debris from the surface. You should also mop the flooring with a disinfectant cleaner. Doing so will help you prevent stains and bacteria from forming on your flooring.
Conclusion
As you can see, laminate flooring water damage can be easily avoided by being careful with sources of water. If you take care of your laminate flooring, it will last a long time and remain beautiful. Keep your flooring clean and dry, and do not walk on it when it’s wet. If water has entered your laminate flooring, it is best to call a professional so they can clean up the area and prevent further damage.
