You need to replace the flooring with a new one, which is the best way to answer the question “how can I mend a water damaged Pergo plank.” It’s a simple process that isn’t too time-consuming, and it can help your floor look beautiful again. You won’t have to worry about bad smells and bulging floor planks anymore!
The Benefits Of Using Pergo Flooring
Pergo is synonymous with laminate flooring. It’s a well-known name that provides hardwood quality floors without the price or the maintenance.
This flooring is perfect for bedrooms and the living room as it adds a classy style to your living space. The other great things about Pergo flooring are:
1. It’s easy to install
Laminate floors aren’t attached to the subfloor under your home, so they don’t require much work to install. If you’re good at construction, you can even try doing it yourself for small projects!
2. It’s durable
Laminated wood is coated in a moisture-resistant adhesive, so it’s immune to small water stains and droplets. The planks don’t fade, and they could last you 25 years if properly cared for.
3. It’s low maintenance
Cleaning is simple with laminate flooring, you only need to dry mop, or vacuum to remove any dust. Just avoid wet mopping, as it can cause the wood to swell over time.
4. It’s budget-friendly
Pergo laminate floors are one of the most affordable planks you can buy. This flooring can fit easily into your budget, and it gives you the best value for your money.
How Do Floors Become Water Damaged?
Laminate floors are pretty water-resistant. You don’t have to worry about spills as long as you clean it up within 30 minutes. This will leave your boards looking as good as new.
If your floor becomes saturated with water, though, then that can lead to problems. Pergo can absorb large amounts of moisture, so it will swell and develop mold if left unattended.
So, what can cause your laminate floors to be water damaged? Well, the biggest culprit is damaged pipes.
Pipes travel under your home, so your floors will receive the brunt of the damage. The water will soak under your planks, and recovery will be impossible.
Leaking appliances can also be responsible for damaged floors; that’s why it’s essential to determine where the water comes from before you replace your floorboards.
Also, refrain from installing Pergo floors in the kitchen or bathroom. These rooms are exposed to moisture, and that isn’t ideal for your laminate planks.
Step-By-Step Process On How To Mend A Water Damaged Pergo Plank
You may be hesitant to start your project because of the difficult work, but don’t worry! If you have the right tools the job will be a breeze.
Step #1. Repair the leak
Before you change your floor, you need to stop the water damage at the source. Check nearby appliances or inspect the pipes under your house. Fix the pipes or call a plumber if the damage is serious.
Step #2. Prepare your tools
You will need the new floor planks, a putty knife, flooring adhesive, measuring tape, a utility knife, hammer, pliers, a cleaning solvent, replacement underlayment material, and safety glasses. Remember to find planks that match your old ones so your floor will look neat.
Step #3. Remove the water damaged planks
Use a putty knife to help you release the edges of the wood. Remember to pull out the whole plank even if only a portion is damaged. Check if there is mold underneath your floor and clean it before applying the new plank.
Step #4. Put the new planks
Make sure that the subfloor is clean and free of mold before installing the new planks. When everything is in order, apply an adhesive and install the new laminate floor. Leave a heavy object on top for 2 hours to ensure the plank stays in place.
Now, you’re finished! Minor water damage is easy to repair, but if the area is too large, then always ask the help of a professional.
How To Know If Your Home Insurance Covers Water Damage On Floors
Imagine the water damage to your home is too much for a D.I.Y. project, what are you going to do? You will have to call a professional to make some repairs, but their services can be a little costly.
One thing you can turn to is your homeowner insurance, which is an allocated fund that can cover the expenses of your home.
The extent of your insurance coverage depends on your policy and the kind of damage your home faces. For water damage, there are three types:
- Clear water – This is clean water that comes from overflow or leaks.
- Grey water – You can find some contaminants in this water. It usually comes from broken appliances or the toilet.
- Black water – This is the worst water damage as it comes from the sewer; it can lead to illness if not attended to right away.
Sometimes, companies have a different approach to hardwood and laminate flooring. You can document the timeline and the extent of the water damage for your insurance company so you can decide on fair insurance coverage.
If you think you need legal help, reach out to your lawyer for assistance. A lawyer may help you reach a fair agreement with your insurance company.
Conclusion
When you start to notice soggy and bulky floors, you may think, “how can I mend a water damaged Pergo plank?” You can do a D.I.Y. project as long as the water damage isn’t too serious, and you can ask the help of a professional for larger concerns.