Hardwood Floors December 2019/January 2020

AT THE SITE Water Damage (Continued)

water from the flooring surface. • Negative and positive air pressure systems force airflow beneath and within the flooring systems in order to decrease the moisture content by direct use of airflow. If and when water leaks or floods occur, it is important to know with real wood floors, nearly everything is repairable. Many times, minor water damage will dissipate or even completely disappear as the flooring dries out. Major floods will require major repairs. Even the “waterproof ” floors will end up at the landfill with all of the other construction debris when a flood occurs. g Brett Miller is VP of Technical Standards, Training, and Certification at the National Wood Flooring Association in St. Louis. He can be reached at brett.miller@nwfa.org.

Remediation • Airflow and heat can be used to speed the natural drying process. • Dehumidification systems are often used to stabilize the ambient conditions and bring themwithin the target range. » Some of the most-effective

Existing materials below the flooring surface may also create additional mitigation costs and concerns (i.e., asbestos underlayment, lead, radiant heating systems, etc.). Always be aware of the age and construction methods of the facility, and any potential risks that may affect the overall project. Be sure the end- user is aware of any potential additional costs required to properly address the damage, prior to commencing work. Unconditioned areas directly below the wood subflooring system or screeds/sleepers, such as basements and crawlspaces, should also be opened to introduce heat and airflow. Any insulation on the underside of the floor joists should also be removed.

types of dehumidification systems include desiccant systems and low-grain refrigerant systems. » Dehumidifiers should be

placed on the flooring surface as well as below the flooring surface (when applicable). • Vacuum extraction systems include placement of large mats/panels that are attached to vacuum/ suction systems designed to pull

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