Have you ever experienced flooding in your home? If so, you know it can be a nightmare to deal with. Whether your basement has flooded due to inclement weather, or you’re dealing with water damage from an overflown toilet, here is what you need to know about replacing your flood damaged flooring as well as some practical flooring options to help homeowners living in flood-prone areas.
Indoor Carpet: Carpeting is a popular choice for basements because it’s warm and insulating, but it’s the most challenging to deal with after water damage. Carpet will need to be removed as quickly as possible after extreme flooding. If it’s left on the floor, it can quickly grow mold or mildew, which can possibly ruin your subfloor. The good news is though it can be saved if you call professional cleaners within 24 hours.
Outdoor Carpet: If your outdoor carpet is on a concrete subfloor, water damage may be held to a minimum. By sucking out the standing water and allowing it to dry thoroughly you can probably save the carpeting.
Hardwood and Laminate Flooring: Unfortunately, wood and laminate floors are often permanently damaged after flooding because they are porous. Engineered wood and laminate flooring are good options for basements in areas that are not prone to flooding though, because they are dense and more moisture resistant than solid wood.
Ceramic and Porcelain Tile: These tiles only absorb about 1-2% of standing water because they’re made of stone, making them the most waterproof floors available. Tile is especially good for areas with warmer climates, as they keep homes nice and cool.
Vinyl: If there are water pockets below the flooring, you can typically remove and replace the flooring once the subfloor is completely dry.
With any flooring, the key is cleaning the area from top to bottom after water damage has occurred. Mold growth is not something to be messed with. Homeowners can mitigate the damage, cost and stress of flooding by choosing flooring that is durable and low-maintenance.
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