Water damage in your bathroom can be a serious issue. It can lead to structural problems, mold growth, and even health issues if not addressed promptly.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of repairing your bathroom floor after water damage on your own if you want to. We will also discuss the signs of water damage, how to address mold issues, and when to call for professional help.
Signs of Bathroom Floor Water Damage
Water damage can range from minor to severe. Here are some signs that your bathroom might be suffering from water damage:
- Musty smell: This is often the first sign of water damage. If your bathroom smells damp or musty, it might be due to water damage.
- Recurring mold and mildew: Mold and mildew thrive in damp environments. If you notice recurring mold and mildew in your bathroom, it could be a sign of water damage.
- Warped walls: Water can cause your walls to warp or buckle. If you notice any changes in your walls, it might be due to water damage.
- Spongy, soft floor: If your floor feels spongy or soft underfoot, it could be a sign of water damage.
- Gaps in caulk, tile, or tub: Gaps can allow water to seep into your floor, leading to water damage.
Addressing Mold Issues After Water Damage
If you discover mold in your bathroom, it's important to address it immediately. Mold can cause health issues and further damage to your home.
You can treat minor mold issues with a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water, bleach, or a combination of borax and water. However, if the mold issue is severe, you should call a professional mold remediation service.
Should Mold Remediation Be Done First?
Yes, if you discover a mold problem, you should call a mold remediation service first before repairing your floor. It doesn't make sense to fix the floor and cover up the mold underneath.
Mold can spread quickly and can cause health issues. By addressing the mold issue first, you can prevent further damage and ensure that your home is safe.
Call 213-519-5226 for mold remediation service if you are in the LA country area
Repairing Your Bathroom Floor
To begin repairing your bathroom floor. Here are the steps to take:
- Turn off the water: Close the main water valve to prevent any more water from coming into the room as you work.
- Prep the area: Remove anything sitting on top of the damaged floors so you have an open area in which to work. Use a pry bar to remove any protruding nails and the floor’s baseboards.
- Inspect the area: Look at the floor joists and figure out which ones are on either side of the water-damaged area. Draw a clear, rectangular area of damage.
- Remove damages: Use a cat’s paw and hammer to pull out fasteners or a drill to remove screws. Cut along the lines that form the rectangle and lift out this area.
- Give time for the area to dry: If the joists are wet, ventilate the area and give them a few days to dry thoroughly.
- Reinforce the joists: Nail new wood over the rotted areas, making sure each end is on top of good wood.
- Cover the gap: Measure the specific dimensions of your rectangular area, and cut plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) to cover it. Set this new material in place with 2-inch wood screws, leaving a 1/8-inch gap between the new and existing flooring. Use floor compound to fill that gap, level out unevenness, and sand the area if necessary.