How To Save Water-Damaged Timber Floors: A Restoration Guide For Australians

How Water Affects Different Wood Floors

Better Timber Flooring, a company with over 50 years of experience in timber flooring solutions, explains that not all wooden floors respond to water damage in the same way. The type of material, how it’s installed, and how long it’s been exposed to moisture all influence whether restoration is possible—or if replacement is the better option.

Solid Timber Floors

Better Timber Flooring says that traditionally installed timber floors are more resilient to water damage. These floors—especially when top-nailed into joists—can often be saved with proper restoration techniques.

Engineered, Laminate, and Bamboo Floors

These floor types are typically overlay products installed as floating floors. Water affects them differently:

• They can often be replaced in sections.
• Finding matching products for partial replacement can be challenging.
• Older floors (10-20 years) may require full replacement.

The Science Behind Wood and Water

Two factors determine how badly your timber floor will be affected:

Wood Density Matters

• Low-density woods (like pine) absorb water quickly but also dry faster.
• High-density woods (like Spotted Gum) resist short water exposure but take longer to dry if saturated.

Exposure Duration is Critical

A quick test shows that after just 4 hours:

• Pine increases in weight by about 40%.
• Spotted Gum increases by only 2%.

However, if high-density hardwood sits on wet subfloors for weeks, or experiences slow leaks over months, it will absorb significant moisture and require professional attention.

What to Do When Your Floor Gets Wet

Act Quickly

The sooner you address water damage, the better your chances of saving your floor. Even floors previously thought beyond repair can now be saved with accelerated drying techniques.

Consider the Source of Water Damage

Water damage can come from:

• Floods or cyclones.
• Extreme damp weather.
• Building leaks.
• Burst appliances (dishwashers, refrigerators).
• Bathroom overflows.
• Laundry pipe issues.

When Restoration Isn't Possible: Sustainable Replacement Options

If your floor needs replacement, consider sustainable options:

• Recycled timber flooring made from reclaimed structural timbers.
• Materials sourced from barn, bridge, and building demolitions.
• Engineered flooring with eco-friendly credentials.

Did you know? According to Timber Queensland, more than half of timber from construction waste can be reused, and 36% can be recycled.

Why Choose Better Timber Flooring for Your Restoration Needs

Better Timber Flooring's flood damage restoration service brings decades of expertise to your project:

• 50+ years of industry experience.
• Award-winning products and installations.
• Offices in Canberra, Sydney, and Melbourne, with retailers nationwide.
• Australian Timber Flooring Association's "Innovative Design Solid Timber Floor of the Year 2018" for their Canterbury Demure project.
• Runner-up in "Commercial Site Installed 2016" for their work on the Swedish Embassy in Canberra.

Get Expert Help Today!

Water damage doesn't have to mean the end of your timber floor. Contact our team for a professional assessment of your flood-damaged floors. We'll help determine if your floor can be saved or advise on the most sustainable replacement options.

Find out more about Better Timber Flooring's water damage restoration service at https://mrtimberflooring.com.au/services/water-damage-restoration