Engineered wood flooring is a beautiful and practical choice for many homes. It gives you that warm, classic wood look without the high cost of solid hardwood. But even though it’s more resistant to moisture than solid wood, it’s not waterproof. Water damage is still a real threat if you’re not careful.
If you’ve got engineered wood floors or you’re thinking about installing them, knowing how to protect them from water is key. Let’s talk about how water affects engineered wood, what to do if you face water damage, and how you can care for your floors so they last longer.
How Water Affects Engineered Wood
Engineered wood is made of layers of plywood or high-density fiberboard with a real wood veneer on top. This design makes it more stable than solid wood, especially in areas with changing temperatures and humidity. But the truth is, it’s still made of wood—and wood and water just don’t mix well.
When water gets under or into engineered wood, it can cause:
- Swelling or warping: The layers may puff up or twist.
- Discoloration: Water can leave dark spots or stains on the surface.
- Peeling: If the top layer gets too wet, it can start to peel away.
- Mold growth: Moisture trapped underneath can cause mold, which is both unhealthy and damaging.
Common Causes of Water Damage
Engineered wood can be damaged by many everyday things, such as:
- Spills that aren’t cleaned up right away
- Leaky dishwashers, fridges, or sinks
- Mopping with too much water
- High humidity over time
- Flooding from heavy rains or plumbing issues
The key is catching the problem early before the water has time to sink in and cause serious damage.
What to Do If Your Floors Get Wet
If you spill something on your floor, don’t panic—but act fast. Here’s what you should do:
- Dry it immediately: Use a soft cloth or paper towel to soak up as much water as you can. Don’t let it sit.
- Use a fan or dehumidifier: This helps pull moisture out of the floor and the air. Keep it running for at least 24-48 hours.
- Check for signs of damage: Look for raised edges, bubbles, or dark spots. If you see these, you may need to replace those boards.
- Call a pro if needed: For big leaks or flooding, get a flooring expert or restoration company involved. They have tools to dry everything properly and prevent mold.
Everyday Care Tips to Prevent Water Damage
You can avoid a lot of trouble with a few simple habits. Here’s how to keep your engineered wood floors in good shape:
- Wipe up spills quickly: The faster you clean them, the less damage they’ll do.
- Use rugs in key areas: Put mats near sinks, doors, and anywhere water might drip.
- Trim your pet’s nails and clean up accidents right away: Pets are adorable, but they can be rough on your floors.
- Don’t use wet mops: Instead, use a damp cloth or a hardwood floor cleaner with a microfiber mop.
- Keep humidity in check: Use a dehumidifier in summer or a humidifier in winter to keep indoor air balanced. Ideal humidity is around 35-55%.
- Protect from furniture: Use felt pads under furniture to avoid scratching, which makes the floor more vulnerable to water.
When to Replace vs. Repair
Sometimes, no matter how careful you are, water damage happens. If the floorboards are buckling or there’s mold, it might be time to replace part of the floor. In less serious cases, you might be able to sand and refinish the top layer.
The good news is that most engineered wood floors are made with this in mind. Some types allow for sanding and refinishing once or even twice, depending on the thickness of the top veneer.
Final Thoughts
Engineered wood can handle a bit of moisture better than solid hardwood, but it’s not invincible. Taking a few steps to prevent water damage can save you money and stress in the long run. Treat your floors with care, and they’ll return the favor by looking great for years to come.