Wood floors add a ton of warmth and character to any home, but they don’t handle water well (like, at all.) Spills, humidity, and hidden leaks can cause warping, staining, and long-term damage. Keeping floors dry isn’t complicated, but you’d be surprised at how many things can cause water damage to your wood floors. Browse our 10 easy tips to protect floors from water damage.
1. Clean Up Spills – Immediately
Say it with us: Water and wood don’t mix. If anything spills, water, pet accidents, or even a leaky pipe, clean it up right away. Grab a dry towel or an absorbent cloth to soak up the moisture, then follow up with a microfiber mop. For bigger messes, a fan or dehumidifier helps dry things out faster. The key is to keep water from seeping into seams or soaking into the actual grains of wood.
2. Use Rugs and Mats in Key Areas
Some parts of the house are more prone to water exposure than others. Kitchens, entryways, and hallways near bathrooms are hotspots for moisture. Placing really absorbent rugs or mats in these areas adds a layer of protection. Stick with breathable backings like felt or woven fabric. Rubber mats can trap moisture underneath and cause damage over time.
3. Control Indoor Humidity
Fluctuating humidity levels can cause wood floors to expand and contract, leading to cracks or warping. Keeping humidity between 35% and 55% prevents this from happening. In the summertime, a dehumidifier helps remove excess moisture from the air. During winter, when indoor heating dries things out, a humidifier adds just enough moisture to keep the wood from drying out and splitting.
4. Seal Gaps and Cracks
Even small gaps in the floorboards can let water seep in. Sealing cracks with wood filler or applying a fresh coat of polyurethane helps keep moisture from getting trapped. Refinishing the floors every few years keeps them looking good and adds a protective layer against water, and it’s very doable on your own. Even some caulking is fine in a pinch.
5. Lift, Don’t Drag, Furniture
Dragging heavy furniture can scratch the finish and create openings where water can settle. Whenever you need to move furniture, lift it up instead of sliding it. Adding felt pads under furniture legs also reduces the risk of deep scratches. If you have chairs that roll, a protective floor mat can protect floors from water damage.
6. Be Careful When Cleaning
Mopping is the #1 enemy of hardwood flooring. Mopping might seem harmless, but using too much water is one of the fastest and surefire ways to damage wood floors. Avoid soaking the mop or leaving standing water behind. A damp microfiber mop is enough to clean without overloading the wood with moisture. Skip steam mops altogether – high heat pushes moisture deep into the floor, which can cause long-term damage. Stick to cleaners made specifically for wood to keep their finish intact. (We sell floor cleaners for all flooring types!)
7. Refinish Wood When Needed
The protective finish on wood floors wears down over time, making them more vulnerable to water damage. If you notice dull spots or areas where the finish has worn thin, it’s time to refinish. Adding a new layer of polyurethane restores the protective barrier and keeps moisture from sinking in.
8. Check for Plumbing Leaks
A slow leak under a sink or behind an appliance can cause major damage before you even notice. Check under cabinets, along baseboards, and around dishwashers or washing machines for signs of water. If you spot warping, discolouration, or a musty smell, there’s probably a moisture issue that needs attention.
9. Keep Water Outside or at the Door
Rain, snow, and muddy shoes bring unwanted moisture inside. A good doormat, both outside and inside, helps cut down on the amount of water tracked onto your floors. Encouraging guests to wipe their feet or leave shoes at the door makes a big difference in preventing excess moisture.
10. Protect Floors From Pet Water Bowls
Pets can be tough on floors, especially when it comes to water. Splashes from water bowls and wet paws after a rainy walk can leave moisture sitting on the floor. A waterproof mat under food and water dishes keeps spills contained. Food and water bowls on raised feet also help to limit contact. Or, try keeping a towel near the door for drying paws before they run inside.
Final Thoughts
Keeping floors dry is all about prevention. Quick cleanup, smart rug placement, proper cleaning techniques, and routine maintenance all help avoid costly water damage. The less moisture your floors are exposed to, the longer they’ll stay in great condition. A little extra effort now can keep your floors looking beautiful for years to come!
