how to repair water damaged laminate flooring

^{How to Fix a Laminate Floor That Got Wet?}

• Contain the Damage. Obviously, if your laminate is still being exposed to water then there’s no point in going through the process of fixing it.
• Check the Locking System to Find Damage. The goal here is to determine which areas of the flooring are destroyed. ...
• Make Sure You Have the Proper Tools. Make a list of all the things that you’ll need in order to do the job. Here’s an example list. ...
• Remove the Laminate Up to the Damaged Area. This is the part that most people will get stuck as it’s not easy. ...
Replace the Damaged Planks. This is another challenging part of the job. You have to make sure that the planks you’re replacing are the same ones that are currently installed.
Reinstall the Laminate. The final step is to reinstall the laminate. Use enough adhesive and put heavy objects on the laminate to hold it down.

How to save your laminate floors from water damage?

Make Sure You Have the Proper Tools

• Flooring adhesive
• Safety glasses
• Putty knife
• Cleaning solvent
• Hammer
• Utility knife
• Measuring tape
• Pliers
• Replacement underlayment

How do I repair water damage to a laminate floor?

• Laminate floor lifting or buckling can be caused by changes in temperature and humidity levels.
• Use a hammer and chisel or putty knife to remove baseboards or molding near the damaged boards.
• If spacers were used between the wall and the board closest to it, replace them with smaller spacers. ...

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How to paint laminate after water damage?

• Shake up a small can of stain or furniture polish.
• Dip your old rag into the stain or polish.
• Rub the covered rag over the scratches, coating them with stain.
• Wipe them off with the dry part of the rag, and the laminate scratches will have disappeared.
• Plug your iron in and turn it on to medium heat.

How to clean laminate wood floors without doing damage?

• The best way to clean laminate floors is to use products made especially for them. ...
• Use a damp mop on your floors every two to three months. ...
• You can also use a laminate floor mop. ...
• After mopping, go over floors with a dry microfiber cloth or a dry mop to make sure there’s no water left on the floor.

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Can you fix swollen laminate flooring?

Proper Repair of Swollen Laminate You can cut the new boards using the damaged pieces as a guide. Replace the damaged boards with boards from the outer edge of your original flooring and then replace the outer boards with new boards that have been allowed to acclimate in the room for at least 72 hours.

How do you reverse water damage on laminate flooring?

4:316:16Water Damaged Laminate Flooring-How To Fix It ... - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd go through each of the cracks. And the areas where the laminate flooring connects. And justMoreAnd go through each of the cracks. And the areas where the laminate flooring connects. And just really try and suck out as much water as possible.

Can damaged laminate be repaired?

If one of your laminate floorboards has sustained damaged, there's no reason to panic. Regular scratches and even cracks can be repaired with a floor repair kit. Available in different colours depending on your laminate's colour, they're simple to use with impeccable results.

Will water under laminate dry out?

While water under laminate may eventually dry out on its own, it'll typically cause damage before that occurs. If you try to wait, the odds are relatively high that irreparable damage will occur to at least some of your floorboards. Additionally, the delay increases your odds of ending up with mold.

How do you fix water-damaged floors?

It's not just water that causes mold and mildew; it's the combination of water and dirt.Remove Surface Water. ... Scrub the Floor. ... Treat Moldy Areas. ... Dry the Floor. ... Sand Water-Damaged Wood Flooring. ... Deal With Mold on Wood Under Paint. ... Replace Laminate.

How can you tell if mold is under laminate flooring?

Look around the room and see if you can find any signs of mold growth, including a musky odor, as well as black or dark green streaks in-between the planks. If it ever gets to this point, you'll need a full replacement, as the mold can infiltrate your home and wreak havoc on your health.

Is there a filler for laminate flooring?

Can it be done? Yes, you can hide and repair cracks in laminate flooring. You can use products like wood filler, wood putty, or wood glue, designed to fill and improve minor to more apparent imperfections in the floor without the need to replace the entire floor or the whole laminate plank.

Can you replace a few pieces of laminate flooring?

You can fix minor chips and scratches in a laminate floor with filler products. But if the damage is severe, you have to replace the plank (you did save a few from the installation, right?). It's a job you can do yourself in about two hours.

How do you fix a laminate floor that is separating?

But if damages are few, you can use caulk putty, filler, wood, or long pieces of string. These will fix the gaps and prevent drafts from through the floor at the same time. These fillers will fill in the gaps resulting to your floor's original smooth finish if done right.

How long does it take for mold to grow under wet laminate?

Mold only takes 24 to 48 hours to grow. Given the right, moist environment, it would easily thrive. However, if groundwater flooding or a sewage backup occurs, it would only take 12 to 24 hours to grow. Again, the longer you take to clean up, the increased chances of mold and bacteria growth.

How do I know if my laminate floor has water damage?

Signs of Water Damage Laminate Floor Coverings May SufferBuckling.Splitting.Cracking.Discoloration.Visible mold.A musty odor of mold.

How do you restore laminate flooring?

0:041:47How to Restore My Laminate Floors to Look New Again : Let's Talk FlooringYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo we'll take our floor filler. Apply it to the top of our scratches and then go ahead and work itMoreSo we'll take our floor filler. Apply it to the top of our scratches and then go ahead and work it in with your fingers. Then we'll take our plastic putty knife and run right over the top of it.

How do you fix a laminate floor that is lifting?

0:392:57LIFTING LAMINATE FLOORING, LAMINATE EXPANSION PROBLEM ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipHere. So in order to fix this the first thing we want to do is to pop off all the trim and i'veMoreHere. So in order to fix this the first thing we want to do is to pop off all the trim and i've already started doing that we've taken off all of our base.

How do you remove mold from laminate flooring?

Mix equal parts water, rubbing alcohol and white vinegar in a bucket. Both vinegar and rubbing alcohol have antimicrobial properties that help to kill any mold spores on the laminate floor. The alcohol also helps the liquids evaporate more quickly to prevent damage or warping of the surface of the laminate.

How do you fix a buckled laminate floor?

6:1810:25How to Fix Buckling, Popping, or Bubbles in Laminate Floors! We ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAll the way along the top of the baseboard to break the caulk there's a layer of caulk on the top ofMoreAll the way along the top of the baseboard to break the caulk there's a layer of caulk on the top of the baseboard to make it smooth with the paint.

Can Laminate Flooring Get Wet

Although some Laminate flooring is rated to be water-resistant for a certain amount of time, most laminate flooring should not be allowed to get in contact with water!

Swelling

Swelling is the most common sign of water damaged Laminate. As MDF Structure of laminate absorbs moisture it will start to deform and swell up.

Warping

Another common result of water damage to your laminate, warping is when the edges of your laminated floor begin to rise up and create an uneven surface in your flooring.

Splitting or Separating

In some instances, when the laminate flooring dries out, it may separate, leaving splits/gaps between the planks.

Discoloration

Sometimes, water damage can be as simple as discolored spotting on the surface of the floor.

Buckling

Buckling is not always water-damage related however it occurs when there isn’t enough room for the flooring to expand and contract due to a change in humidity in the air.

Mold or mildew

Most commonly occurring in particularly damp or humid areas with low lighting or dark conditions, mold growth is a serious health risk and one of the most obvious signs of water damage.

Symptoms of Laminate Floor Deterioration

Examine your laminate floor for the following signs and symptoms to determine if it has been damaged.

Various Types of Laminate Damage

Before beginning the process of repairing water-related damage to laminate flooring, it is critical to understand the many types of damage that can occur.

6 Simple DIY Methods To Repair Laminate Flooring Water Damage

Although there is a risk of swelling and warping, water-damaged laminate flooring can usually be repaired in the majority of cases.

What exactly is the cause of the water damage to laminate flooring?

Water destroys laminate flooring by penetrating the layers and causing damage.

Our Final Thoughts

Fixing water-damaged laminate flooring is a difficult operation, but it can be accomplished with the help of the above-mentioned suggestions on How to fix laminate floor water damage?

Frequently Ask Questions

Boards that have been damaged by water cannot be repaired, but they can be replaced.

What to do if laminate is exposed to water?

First you must find the source of the water/moisture and deal with it. By dealing with this issue you’ll ensure that your efforts aren’t wasted.

Is laminate flooring good for water damage?

It’s not all rainbows and butterflies though. Sure laminate flooring can withstand minor spills and a bit of moisture but anything more than this and you risk water damage. Once the materials in the laminate start to absorb ...

Can you repair water damage laminate flooring?

Overall, repairing water damaged laminate flooring isn’t easy. If you decide to fix it yourself then follow the steps in this article to repair it without having to install an entire new floor. If you would like any help then click below to get a quote from professionals in your area.

Can you replace damaged planks?

This is another challenging part of the job. You have to make sure that the planks you’re replacing are the same ones that are currently installed. Unless you happen to have extra planks from when you first installed them it could be very difficult to get the right replacements.

How to Fix Laminate Floor Planks

If a laminate floor is damaged by water or moisture, the only solution is to replace them . Do not try to repair the swollen laminate flooring – it won’t work. Basically, a delaminated board is a trash.

How to Prevent Water Damage?

There are several precautions you should be taking to prevent water damage in the future.

Professional Help

If it’s difficult for you to remove, you can always take professionals’ services. Typically, it costs $1-$2 per sq ft to remove laminate floorboards. However, if the subfloor is damaged, you should hire a professional. Not to mention, you may not find your local professional willing to remove floorboards without replacing them.

Conclusion

Checking around for leaks once in a while, wiping away spills, and basic home maintenance is essential to keeping your laminate floors safe from water damage. Water damage is irreversible; hence you will have to invest in new planks. Thus, skip the plan to repair laminate flooring.

Can You Fix Water-Damaged Laminate Flooring?

When enough water seeps into the laminate to damage the wood, you may see signs of water damage, including buckling planks, bubbling or cracking in the surface of the laminate, and the appearance of mold.

4 Steps To Fix Laminate Floor Water Damage

Time required: 2–3 hours of labor, 2–3 days to acclimate any new planks

1. Clean Up Any Moisture and Contain Its Source

If your floor has damage from a spill pooling on the floor, clean up the water and allow the floorboards to dry fully. If the source is not apparent, check for leakage from nearby pipes or appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines.

2. Inspect the Floor and Locate All Damaged Areas

Once you have neutralized the source of the water damage, inspect the whole floor, searching closely for all signs of damage. Once water penetrates the laminate surface of your floor, it can move through wood quickly, creating extensive damage that can continue to spread if not properly treated.

3. Remove Damaged Planks

Wear safety glasses while you work to get rid of any damaged planks. If some are close to walls, remove all baseboards and molding using a putty knife or pry bar.

Removing Damaged Baseboards in the Middle of the Floor

If you have damaged baseboards in the middle of the floor, you have two options for removal. You can start from the wall and remove each plank until you reach the damaged ones. Working from right to left, find the groove edge on the outermost plank and gently lift or pry to release it from the lock before moving on to the next one.

4. Replace Damaged Planks

Discard all damaged planks. Hopefully, you will have saved some extra planks from the installation for situations like this. If not, you may have to do a bit of work to find pieces that match.

How to Fix Laminate Floor Water Damage

Whether the water damage is extensive or moderate, the following methods will assist you in containing and repairing the damage:

Signs Of Water Damage On Laminate Flooring

Should you notice any of the following signs, your laminate may be damaged.

Conclusion

Fixing laminate flooring that has been damaged by water is a difficult task. If you intend to make the repairs yourself, the steps on how to fix laminate floor water damage discussed in this article will make it easier for you; for widespread damage, please, seek professional assistance.

Why does laminate flooring contract?

The materials that are used in laminate flooring expand and contract due to changes in the environment. If they get really wet laminate floor bubbles will appear! That being said, laminate floors will not just breakdown the second water touches them. If a liquid is spilled on top of the wood flooring – do not panic.

What happens if you damage laminate planks?

Damaged planks typically will have some level of discoloration and can sometimes buckle and become misshapen after being exposed to any amount of water. These are the laminate planks you should be focusing on. Make a note of or flag each board that stands out to you for the next step.

Why does water seep under laminate flooring?

This is necessary, but also leaves room for water to seep underneath and cause some real problems.

What to do if dishwasher leaks?

If it is a leak from your dishwasher or some other location, focus all of your efforts on stopping that before you take the time to worry about the laminate floors. Once you have stopped the flow of water, revert your attention to the damaged boards to see the extent of the problem.

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With Ben’s knowledge, and visionary leadership, All Dry USA has expanded into a national, full-service property damage restoration company with multiple locations across the United States. Ben holds numerous specialty licenses and certifications in restoration and construction.

Can laminate flooring be damaged?

As mentioned above, laminate flooring can handle a little bit of water on the surface but can still be damaged if it sits for too long. Clean and dry all affect boards before moving on to the next step. Make sure all leaks have been resolved, before doing any repairs or adding a sealant.

Can water damage laminate flooring?

When looking to fix damage caused by water on laminate flooring, it is essential to understand that different types of damage can occur. This specific type of flooring is not compatible with water or humid environments and can be irreversibly damaged, even in short periods. Manufacturer instructions make it very clear that laminate floors should ...

Repair Scratched Laminate

Scratches are one of the common issues found in laminate floorings. Well, repairing a scratched laminate is very basic, unless it’s been damaged a lot. Here are the ways you can use to repair your scratched laminate floor.

How to Repair Buckled Laminate

A buckled laminate is when two of your laminate planks expand with no space, forming a tent-like structure. This can happen due to changes in the atmosphere and moisture, making the laminate expand when there is no space to expand.

How to Repair Laminate Peaking

A peaking laminate can occur when there’s no space left for laminate expansion. Peaking is the initial stage of buckling. Two planks expand together to a point they peak; this is similar to buckling. There is a way to deal with this without replacing the planks.

How to Repair Laminate Dents

Dents can be caused by a drop of some heavy object or moving furniture around. These dents ruin the look of your laminate flooring; thankfully, there is a rather odd solution that woodworkers have been using for years to fix it.

How to Repair Laminate Soft Spots

Do you have some spots that are soft in your laminate? They are caused by uneven leveling or improper installation of the underlayment. These spots can go away by injecting foam spray into them.

How to Repair Laminate Floor Gaps

Laminate floor gaps are often caused by poor installation; they may not be glued properly and end up looking like a jigsaw puzzle. There’s an easy way to fix it with a floor gap fixer or wood glue. Even better, you can use both of them together in the correct application for a permanent solution.

How to Replace Laminate Plank

If the plank is damaged beyond repair, it would be in your best interest to get them replaced.

Signs of Water Damage

How to Fix Laminate Floor Planks

• If a laminate floor is damaged by water or moisture, the only solution is to replace them. Do not try to repair the swollen laminate flooring – it won’t work. Basically, a delaminated board is a trash. It is quite different to replace water-damaged laminate planks from replacing laminate planks that have been damaged by other factors, such as dents...

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Professional Help

Conclusion