The short answer
Initial Water Removal
The first step is to remove any standing water from the floor surface. Pros use wet vacuums and mops to extract as much water as possible. This happens quickly, because the longer water sits, the deeper it soaks into the wood.
After the visible water is gone, they check for water trapped under the floor or in the subfloor. If the water came from a clean source, they may be able to dry it in place. If it was dirty water, the flooring might need to be removed and replaced.
- Use a wet vacuum to pull water from the surface
- Mop up remaining puddles with towels or cloths
- Check for water in the subfloor or under the flooring
- Remove baseboards or shoe molding to expose gaps
- If water is contaminated, plan for flooring removal
Setting Up Drying Equipment
Once the surface water is gone, pros place air movers and dehumidifiers around the room. Air movers create airflow across the floor, which helps moisture evaporate from the wood. Dehumidifiers pull moisture from the air so it doesn't settle back into the planks.
They might also use specialized drying mats or inject dry air under the floor if the subfloor is wet. The equipment runs for days, and pros check the moisture content regularly to see how the drying is progressing.
Monitoring Moisture Levels
Pros use moisture meters to measure the water content in the hardwood planks and the subfloor. They take readings at several spots to track drying progress. The target is to bring the wood back to its normal moisture level, which usually takes three to five days.
If the wood doesn't dry evenly, it can cup or warp. Pros adjust the placement of air movers and dehumidifiers based on the readings. They also check for hidden moisture in walls or under cabinets that could slow the drying process.
When Flooring Must Be Removed
Not all hardwood can be saved. If the wood is severely warped, has deep stains, or was soaked with sewage or floodwater, it may need to be replaced. Pros will remove the damaged planks and the subfloor if it's also wet or rotting.
If only a few planks are damaged, they might replace just those. But if the whole floor is affected, the pros may take up the entire floor to dry the subfloor and then install new hardwood later. This decision depends on the extent of the damage and the type of wood.
Preventing Mold and Mildew
Wet hardwood can grow mold within 24 to 48 hours. Pros aim to dry the floor quickly to reduce that risk. They also clean the area with an antimicrobial solution if needed, especially if the water came from a leak or flood.
After drying, they inspect for any signs of mold or mildew. If mold is found, a mold professional may need to handle the cleanup. Keep the area ventilated and check for musty odors. If you feel unwell from mold exposure, see a doctor.
Water damage does not wait
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (480) 898-4279Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to dry wet hardwood floors?
Drying usually takes three to five days, but it depends on how much water was absorbed, the type of wood, and the drying equipment used. Pros monitor moisture levels daily and adjust the setup until the wood reaches a safe moisture content.
Can wet hardwood floors be saved?
Sometimes, if the water is clean and the drying starts quickly. If the wood is cupped, warped, or soaked with dirty water, it may need replacement. Pros assess the damage and moisture levels to decide if the floor can be dried in place.
What should I do while waiting for the pros?
Remove as much standing water as you can with towels or a wet vacuum. Open windows and turn on fans to increase airflow if it's safe. Don't walk on the wet floor more than necessary, and keep the room ventilated to help the drying process.