Laminate Flooring During a Water Damage

11/1/2018 (Permalink)

Laminate flooring comes with its own set of rules when it comes to water damages.

With all the different types of flooring options we have available in our homes today, it should come as no surprise that the most common concern after a water damage has to do with the flooring. As long as the water damage is caught quickly, most carpet materials can be salvaged though the pads are replaced. And even most hardwood floors can be dried. But there is one type of flooring that can not be restored after a water damage has occurred and that is laminate.

Laminate flooring holds moisture that permanently compromises the material. As soon as it gets wet, it begins to warp and unlike its hardwood counterpart, the warping can not be reversed by drying. Laminate flooring also has a vapor barrier underneath of it that traps water. In order to allow proper air movement, the barrier has to be removed. If the laminate and vapor barrier are not properly handled after a water damage, more damage can occur from mold and mildew.

Be sure to contact local professionals to assist you if you experience a water damage. SERVPRO® of Springfield is available 24/7 at 217-528-7775.