The short answer
Act Fast to Prevent Damage
The longer water sits on hardwood, the deeper it soaks into the grain and the more damage it can cause. Begin by blotting up as much water as possible with clean towels or a mop. Press down firmly to pull moisture from the surface. Avoid rubbing, which can push water deeper into the wood.
After removing surface water, set up fans to circulate air across the floor. Open windows if the outdoor humidity is lower than indoors. In Rowlett, the humid subtropical climate means outdoor air may not always help, so use a dehumidifier if needed. The goal is to dry the wood slowly and evenly to reduce warping and cupping.
- Use a wet vacuum for large puddles
- Lift area rugs and furniture off the wet floor
- Place fans at floor level, not just above
- Run a dehumidifier to pull moisture from the air
- Do not use a heater or hair dryer on the wood
- Check for swelling along seams and edges
Remove Water from the Subfloor
If the water has soaked through the hardwood into the subfloor, drying the surface alone will not be enough. The subfloor can stay damp for weeks, causing mold and further damage. You may need to remove some planks to allow air to reach the space below. This is often necessary after a pipe leak or flood.
To check if the subfloor is wet, place a plastic sheet on the floor and tape the edges. Leave it for 24 hours. If moisture forms under the plastic, water is still rising from below. In that case, the pros may use structural drying and dehumidification equipment to dry the subfloor properly.
Dry Slowly to Avoid Warping
Hardwood reacts to moisture by expanding. If you dry it too quickly, the surface shrinks while the inside stays wet, causing cracks and splits. Dry at a steady pace with gentle airflow and moderate temperature. Keep the room around 70 degrees Fahrenheit if possible.
Monitor the floor daily for signs of cupping, where the edges rise, or crowning, where the center rises. Small changes may settle as the wood dries. If the floor becomes uneven or boards pop up, you may need to replace some sections. A water damage inspection can help determine the extent.
Clean and Disinfect After Drying
Water from leaks or floods may contain dirt, bacteria, or other contaminants. After the wood is dry, clean the surface with a mild detergent and water. Rinse with clean water and dry again. If the water was from a sewer or flood, treat the area as potentially hazardous and wear gloves and a mask.
Do not use bleach on hardwood, as it can discolor the finish. Instead, use a wood-safe cleaner. If mold starts to grow on the surface or in the seams, you may need a mold professional to assess the situation. See a doctor if you feel unwell from mold exposure.
Know When to Call the Pros
Some water damage is too deep for DIY drying. If the floor has been wet for more than a couple of days, or if the subfloor is soaked, professional help may be needed. The pros have industrial dehumidifiers and moisture meters to dry the wood thoroughly and check for hidden moisture.
If you live in Rowlett, keep the contact information for local water damage pros handy. They can also help with removing wet insulation or replacing damaged flooring. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to see what types of water damage are included.
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Call (214) 730-5993 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (214) 730-5993Frequently asked questions
Can I use a hairdryer to dry my hardwood floor?
You should not use a hairdryer or any direct heat source. Heat can cause the wood to dry unevenly, leading to cracks and warping. Instead, use fans and a dehumidifier to dry the floor slowly and evenly.
How long does it take for hardwood to dry after a leak?
Drying time depends on how much water was absorbed and the humidity level. Surface drying may take a few days, but if the subfloor is wet, it can take weeks. Use a moisture meter to check if the wood is dry before refinishing.
Will my hardwood floor return to its original shape after drying?
Sometimes, but not always. If the wood was not badly warped, it may return to normal as it dries. However, if the boards have cupped or crowned, they may need sanding or replacement. A professional can assess the damage and recommend the right course.