What To Do If Flooding Occurs On Laminate Flooring

7/20/2017 (Permalink)

This is a picture of laminate flooring that was affected by flooding but was never removed. Its discoloration and warping will gradually grow worse.

Part of our responsibilities here at SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine are to educate the public about the proper steps to take after a fire or flood. Recently we had a customer call us and ask what they should do to restore their laminate floors after a flood occurred in their home.  While restoration of materials is our number one goal, laminate flooring unfortunately can’t be restored after a flood. We always prefer to restore rather than replace, but laminate flooring holds moisture that permanently compromises the material. Once laminate flooring gets wet it begins to warp, and unlike solid wood (“real” not compressed wood) flooring the warping on laminate flooring is not reversible by drying. More so, the underlay used in laminate flooring is a vapor barrier designed to protect the flooring from moisture in the concrete slab. Once water gets under the laminate planks it is trapped and all affected laminate flooring must be removed to ensure proper air movement.  If you or someone you know has questions regarding proper remediation techniques, please call us today at 904-429-4457. Our restoration experts are always available and our opinions are always free.