Floor Moisture is a real problem, and needs to be tackled with full attention. We know how it feels when some guests at home or clients in the office point out the wet floor, it feels embarrassing. We researched and found the reasons behind, and How to Remove Moisture from Floor.
Moisture can turn into a disaster for any floor, whether it is concrete, hardwood, or vinyl flooring. But we should find out the ways how to tackle this issue.
How to Draw Moisture Out of Wood Floors
Moisture seems like a minor issue, It can lead to serious problems when not tackled properly. Excessive moisture especially on hardwood floors can lead to cracking and warping.
There are many reasons for this including.
- Leakage from Appliances
- High Indoor Humidity Level
- Faulty Installation
If the moisture is not controlled it can damage the floor and can cause:
Crowning: The wood center is raised higher than the edges
Buckling: The wood flooring is distorted and the subfloor pulls up
Staining: Color distortion and stain of floor
Cupping: Edges higher than the center of the flooring
Before starting the removal process you need to run the Dehumidifier as it extracts moisture and stores it in the chamber.
Dry Mopping
The first and foremost important step is to clean the surface and remove any sand and moisture from the surface. You can perform the task with the help of a dry mop. It quickly makes the surface ready to perform the next task.
You can also use towels or rugs in place of a mop, the aim is to clean the surface and make the surface ready to start the moisture removal process.
Sawdust
It’s a waste or by-product of wood. These materials are produced while working with a saw and other machines. Small wood particles play a perfect role in extracting moisture from a wooden floor.
It is a simple step and needs a little effort to perform. You just need to place Sawdust on the floor and leave it for some time. Clean the surface after a few hours and vacuum the floor.
Baking Soda
Sodium bicarbonate is a chemical compound. It is a salt with sodium cation and other chemicals. It is a common household item that is easily available in the kitchen. You need to place the Baking soda on affected areas so it extracts moisture from the wooden floor.
It requires a few hours to complete the process after that you need to clean the surface with a dry mop or pressure vacuum.
Kitty Litter
Kitty litter is also a good option to remove the extra moisture from the surface. The product is made with clay, corn, wheat, and other materials that work best for moisture removal.
You need to place it on the floor to extract the moisture. The next step is to clean the surface and make it ready to use.
Tips For Removing Moisture From Wood Flooring
It is important to act quickly to minimize the damage. Otherwise, it can lead to structural damage in the long run. So, it is better to know how to dry a floor quickly.
Following are things you can try to make the moisture level low.
Proper Ventilation
Air exchange is important, lack of it can lead to carbon monoxide and moisture growth. For proper airflow, you need to open windows and doors so, air can freely move in and out of the premises.
Soak Up Water From the Floor
Water on the floor needs to be cleaned using a towel, rug, or dry mop. In case you left the surface wet after mopping. It will absorb the water which ultimately increases moisture level. It damages the flooring in the long run and reduces its lifespan.
Water-Soaked Objects
It is common that after cleaning and mopping the floor, the cleaning staff leaves water-soaked objects such as mops, wet towels, and other objects that leak water into the wood which can damage flooring and help in the growth of mold and mildew.
It is better to store wet cleaning and other object in a specified area not on the floor of the building.
How to Remove Moisture From Concrete Floor?
Moisture on concrete surfaces is a serious issue that can make the floor slippery, Mold Growth, and can lead to structural damage. We understand the science behind the growth of moisture on hard concrete floors and how to remove and make it perfect and long-lasting
Reasons Behind Moisture on Concrete Floor
Several reasons contribute to the growth of moisture. Following are some of the major factors which contribute the most.
Groundwater Seepage
Groundwater on any surface determines the condition of a floor. If the level of water is high then it starts seeping tiny pores on the concrete surface which ultimately increases the moisture level of the floor and makes it slippery at the same time.
Drainage System
It is important to have a good drainage system for premises and adjacent buildings. Poor drainage system leads to moisture and other structural damage such as cracks and Spalling in the long run.
Humidity Level
Humidity also plays its role. If the level is high it increases the moisture level of the surface.
Removing Moisture from Concrete Floor
Removing moisture from a concrete floor typically involves a combination of techniques to ensure thorough drying. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Identify the Source: Determine the source of moisture. It could be from groundwater, plumbing leaks, or even just high humidity in the air.
Fix Leaks: If there are any leaks contributing to the moisture problem, they need to be fixed before proceeding. This might involve repairing plumbing, sealing cracks, or installing drainage systems.
Increase Ventilation: Improve airflow in the area by opening windows and doors. You can also use fans or dehumidifiers to help circulate air and remove moisture.
Use a Dehumidifier: Dehumidifiers are particularly effective in enclosed spaces or areas with high humidity levels. They work by drawing moisture from the air and collecting it in a reservoir.
Apply a Concrete Sealer: Applying a concrete sealer can help prevent moisture from penetrating the surface of the concrete. There are many types of sealers available, so choose one that is specifically designed to block moisture.
Install a Vapor Barrier: In cases where moisture is coming from the ground, installing a vapor barrier beneath the concrete can help prevent moisture from rising through the slab.
Heat the Area: Increasing the temperature in the space can accelerate the drying process. However, be cautious not to overheat the area, as this can lead to other issues like cracking or warping.
Grinding or Shot Blasting: If the moisture issue is severe and persistent, you may need to resort to more drastic measures such as grinding or shot blasting the surface of the concrete to remove any trapped moisture.
Consulting USA Water Restoration for Removing Moisture from Floor
Consulting USA Water Restoration for moisture removal from floors is advisable due to our extensive expertise and years of experience in the field. With our specialized knowledge and advanced techniques, we can accurately assess the moisture damage and devise effective solutions tailored to your specific needs.
Our seasoned professionals understand the complexities of water damage restoration in Longview region and utilize state-of-the-art equipment to ensure thorough and efficient drying of the floors. By entrusting the task to USA Water Restoration, you can benefit from our proven track record of successful moisture removal projects, providing you with peace of mind and assurance of a job well done.
Mold, Mildew, and Water Damage to Wood Floors
Moisture is a silent killer, which damages your property, especially the flooring. If the moisture level increases, it leads to severe problems including Mold and mildew. If you see mold spores or a bad smell, you need to go for a professional test as it can affect the health of the family or office staff.
If water-damaged flooring is not controlled at the initial stage. In such a situation, you either need to repair the floor or go with the replacement option.
Conclusion
Moisture fixing requires a little effort, which increases the lifespan and makes the surface hygienic. You need to follow the steps mentioned to get the required results. If you are not interested in fixing the moisture of a water-damaged floor or basement, you can hire USA Water Restoration to do the job for you.