How To Waterproof Wood Floors: Long Lasting Procedures

Whether you have an engineered or solid wood floor, waterproofing would be best. In such cases, you need to consider two things. First is whether you mean waterproof or water resistant. And second is how to waterproof wood floors for long-lasting. 

Waterproof and water-resistant floors have some differences. Most of the finished wood floors have some water resistance built in. This article will discuss these things, including the pros and cons of waterproofing wood floors.

Why Make Wood Floors Waterproof?

Waterproof wood flooring may be ideal if you want something stylish and eye-catching while remaining robust and long-lasting. To waterproof wood floors, sand it if your floor does not have a finish, clean the floor, get your waterproofing sealer, and pour it into a 5-gallon bucket. Then, apply it with a brush or roller. 

Here are some reasons to make your wood floor waterproof:

Moisture-Resistant

Waterproofing wood floors helps to resist water absorption, which makes them moisture-resistant. It reduces unattractive warping and swelling issues and helps prevent the spreading of mold and mildew spores.

Durable

Waterproof flooring can last a long time without deterioration as they are simple to maintain, and many are rated for commercial use. You will not need to replace these floors every few years like carpets. Unlike hardwoods, they are very resistant to aging and can last more than 20 years with proper maintenance.

Simple To Clean And Maintain

Waterproof flooring is simple to clean and maintain. Substances stay on the floor’s surface since they don’t soak up spills; you only have to wipe them away. The materials are also stain-resistant; you only need to wash them to clean dirt and grime gently.

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Procedure Of Making Wood Floors Waterproof

Step 1: Prepare The Materials & Equipment

To waterproof your wood floor, prepare these things:

  • Sandpaper
  • Damp tack cloth
  • Sealer
  • A 5-gallon bucket
  • Brush or roller
  • Respirator

Step 2: Sand The Floor

If your floor does not have a finish, sand the floor. After Sanding, begin with rough-grain sandpaper on the edges. Depending on the condition of the floor, you may need two to four passes with finer sandpaper. Finish with a grit of 180 or 220. 

Step 3: Clean The Floor

Vacuum the floor thoroughly, then wipe it down with a damp tack cloth to remove any fine dust that the vacuum missed.

Step 4: Apply The Sealer

After pouring the sealer into a 5-gallon bucket, apply the sealer with a brush or roller. If you use penetrating oil, you must wipe off the excess that pools on the wood. Apply it with a brush and keep a rag handy to do that. 

Polyurethane is best applied with a floor finish applicator, comparable to a weighted sponge squeegee that you drag across the floor. Begin spreading it on the floor at the farthest part of the room from the door and proceed toward the exit. Use a respirator and keep the windows open while working.

Step 5: Let The Sealer Dry

Let the sealer dry completely overnight. If you used paraffin sealer or oil, your job is finished; however, if you used polyurethane and are not to apply another coat of floor finish, screen the floor again with a 120-grit sanding screen, then vacuum the dust.

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Waterproof VS Water-Resistant Wood Floor

Water resistance does not prevent water from penetrating the wood. Making wood floors waterproof is a challenging feat.

There are products available to protect your flooring from water damage. However, most of these chemicals will only reduce water penetration to a certain extent, not totally. 

Water-resistant hardwood flooring can resist water damage from spills. They cannot, however, resist water penetration when it is frequent or prolonged.

You can easily make your wood floor water-resistant using broadly available water-resistant products like lacquer, varnish, stain and sealer combination, linseed oil, and tung oil. Before applying the above materials, sand and clean the wood floor thoroughly.

Water-resistant wood flooring may repel water for a while, but water will eventually permeate. If you have traditional wood or hardwood flooring, the significance of wiping spills cannot be overstated.

Waterproofing your floor will prevent water from penetrating the wood, resist water penetration when it is frequent or prolonged, and repel water for a long time.

FAQ

What Is The Most Waterproof Wood Finish?

The most waterproof wood finish is polyurethane, which dries quickly when it contains water solvents. It is less flexible than varnish, which is excellent for sealing static objects like wood floors.

Can I Waterproof Plywood Floors?

Plywood is very easy to waterproof and seals so effectively that builders can use it for outdoor and maritime purposes. Sealing plywood is simple, and doing so will make the surface even more durable.

Will Painting Wood Floor Make It Waterproof?

Well-maintained paint will seal the wood floor and protect it from water. However, the wood floor will no longer be waterproof if cracks occur in the paint, and water will reach the floor.

Read: How to Protect Wood Door from Sun Damage? Best Effective Ways

Before You Go

Ultimately, regular wood floors will work if you only need your wood floor to prevent water from penetrating for a few minutes. But we highly recommend waterproofing your wood floor if you want it to block water from penetrating for a long time. Waterproofing your wood floor will give you all the benefits discussed in this article.

Hey, I'm George Fanton. I've over nine years of experience in the woodworking industry. I've cultivated a deep interest in practical wood and tasks. I enjoy sharing new information on woodworking technology to maintain my expertise in the current woodworking industries.

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