Discovering water under your laminate flooring can be an alarming sight. Whether from a hidden leak or unexpected flood, moisture beneath the planks spells trouble. But take a deep breath - with quick action and the right techniques, you can often salvage your floor and prevent lasting damage. As flooring experts serving Franken and Green Bay, we're here to guide you through the process of drying out laminate and restoring your space.
Is your laminate locking in liquid?
One of the biggest drawbacks of laminate is its sensitivity to moisture. Unlike hardwood that can be dried and refinished, laminate's layered composition makes it highly susceptible to warping and staining when wet. The longer the water sits, the more it can seep between the cracks, causing the boards to swell, buckle, and even grow mold.
The key is to act fast at the first sign of moisture. Some warning signs that your laminate is taking on water include:
- Cupping or crowning planks
- Bulging seams
- Discolored or spongy-feeling spots
- A musty, damp odor
If you notice any of these red flags, it's time for some laminate first-aid.
5 steps to dry out drenched laminate
When excess water threatens your laminate, follow these steps to minimize the damage:
- Stop the source of the moisture, whether that's a pipe leak, appliance failure, or other water intrusion. You can't properly dry the floor until the liquid stops flowing.
- Remove as much water as possible from the surface using towels, a wet/dry vacuum, or mops. Extract the moisture from between the planks using a vacuum hose attachment. The more you can pull out, the faster the drying process.
- Use fans and dehumidifiers to increase air circulation and accelerate drying. Create a "drying chamber" by closing off the room and positioning high-powered fans at floor level. Run dehumidifiers on their highest setting to pull the evaporating moisture from the air.
- For stubborn water trapped beneath the laminate, you may need to carefully remove the baseboard and drill small holes in the drywall to promote air flow under the flooring. Work cautiously to avoid damaging the laminate or subfloor.
- Monitor the drying progress and check for lingering moisture or mold growth. Invest in a moisture meter to test the subfloor's humidity levels. It may take several days of continuous drying to fully extract the water.
When DIY drying isn't enough
In severe cases where the water has saturated the laminate for an extended period, a professional touch may be necessary. Laminate that has absorbed substantial moisture often needs to be removed to allow the subfloor to completely dry out. Attempting to dry soaked laminate in place can trap water and encourage mold and mildew growth.
Refresh your floors at Bayland Flooring
Dealing with waterlogged floors is never a fun experience, but it can be an opportunity to refresh your space with stylish new laminate. At our New Franken showroom, you'll find an impressive selection of premium laminate in trending designs, textures, and colors. Can't make it in? We also offer a convenient shop-at-home service, bringing samples straight to your door. Our expert team can guide you to moisture-resistant options and provide professional installation for a worry-free floor upgrade. Don't let water woes dampen your style - reach out today to elevate your space with fresh, high-quality laminate from Bayland Flooring.
