Does Water Damage ________?

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

An example of how water can damage hardwood flooring.

Some of the most common questions we get asked is if water will damage this, that, or the other thing. To help answer your questions once and for all, we’re calling in an expert; our very own Key Accounts Manager Nury Cardoza! As a former production technician, crew chief, and estimator, Nury has over 20 years of real-world industry knowledge, including how water damages various materials. Here’s a summary of what she had to say:

Can water damage concrete?

Not really. If the water is running constantly over it, it can start to erode but it won’t get damaged just from a flood.

Will water damage leather?

Yes! Mold will also grow really fast on leather because it is a good source of food, and the mold will eat it.

Does water damage suede?

Yes, similar to leather, suede (and many other fabrics) is a great source of food for mold, which means the mold will spread rather quickly on suede surfaces.

Will water damage hardwood floors?

Oh yes! The wood will suck up the water, causing it to swell and buckle. I remember a job where a woman was on vacation in Florida, and something burst while she was away. When she got home, she couldn’t even open her door because her [beautiful hardwood] floors had buckled so badly.

Can water damage laminate flooring?

Yes, water can get trapped between the laminate and whatever is underneath it, and the water won’t dry which can cause mold.

Will water damage plywood?

Yes. If plywood is exposed to water frequently or for long periods of time it can begin to swell and warp. It is also another big source of mold.