Hardwood flooring is a staple in homes as it can add understated elegance with its classic beauty without compromising its toughness as it can hold up against heavy foot traffic. They’re a stunning and sustainable choice for homes, but they need special attention and regular maintenance to look as good as new when faced with its biggest enemy: moisture. 

Wood can easily absorb water like a sponge, but dealing with a flood can wreak havoc on your hardwood flooring and cause irreversible damages. Restoring them would be costly in more ways than one, and while accidents happen, there are steps you can do to protect your flooring from taking the brunt of water damage.

Different Ways to Protect Hardwood Flooring from Water Damage 

Tip #1: Protect Hardwood Flooring from Moisture 

One of the most effective ways to prevent the flooring from deteriorating due to constant exposure to moisture is to actively keep them away from excess water. A kitchen with hardwood floors, for example, would hold up better if you add natural rubber mats near moisture-heavy areas such as the sink and refrigerator. 

Keep a watchful eye on potential spills and mop them as soon as you notice wet spots to minimize the damage. As for hardwood floors in hallways and the living room, enforcing a shoe-free home policy can help safeguard the flooring against wet footsteps. 

Tip #2: Refinish the Coating Regularly to Keep the Hardwood Floors in Tip-Top Shape 

Hardwood floors can only endure so much thanks to their top coating, but they can wear down quickly in high traffic areas such as the living room, entryways, kitchens, and other pivot points in your home. 

Taking the time to give your flooring the TLC it deserves should extend its lifespan and maintain the quality of the coating. You can try to sand water-damaged floors as a quick fix for any unwanted bends in your hardwood, though it’s better to hire a professional to get the job done right the first time. 

Tip #3: Minimize the Impact of Daily Wear-and-Tear by Using the Right Rugs

Rugs don’t only add a decorative element to your home, but it also fulfills the purpose of protecting hardwood floors from taking heavy damage. Of course, the type of rugs you choose will also make a difference, so steer clear from mats made from latex, synthetic rubber, or vinyl, as these underlays can cause the floor’s rich color to fade. 

With that in mind, natural rubber is the best choice for protecting your hardwood floors from daily wear. 

The Bottom Line: An Overview of How to Safeguard Hardwood Floors from Water Damage 

Hardwood floors are a classic choice for homes as it brings a sense of warmth and luxuriousness, but they can vulnerable against water damage. While it’s hard to protect them from inclement weather conditions, the guide above should ensure hardwood floors can hold up against everyday pressures so they can retain their timeless beauty for years to come. 

How can we Help Restore your Home?

Dealing with the aftermath of water damage can drain your precious time and money. Fortunately, our  Utah flood restoration company can help ease your burden with our flood removal services that strive to help residential areas in Salt Lake City. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help with your flood damage repairs or even prevent future flooding in your home!