Water trapped under laminate flooring can quickly lead to warping, buckling, and mold growth. If you act fast, you may be able to dry the floor and avoid costly replacement. Minor spills or leaks that haven’t soaked into the seams can often be wiped up without issue, but if moisture seeps beneath the planks, you’ll need to take immediate action.
If water sits for too long, laminate flooring can swell, separate, and become permanently damaged. Depending on the severity of the issue, you may need to lift affected boards, replace underlayment, or in worst cases, install new flooring. The cost of replacing laminate flooring ranges from $1,500 to $4,500, depending on materials and room size.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best way to dry laminate flooring with water underneath, when to attempt DIY drying, and when replacement is necessary.
Are Laminate Floors Waterproof?
Laminate flooring is water-resistant but not waterproof. It’s made of four layers:
- Back Layer – Protects against moisture and helps level the floor.
- Core Layer – A high-density board that provides structure and some moisture resistance.
- Design Layer – A printed image that gives the floor its wood or stone appearance.
- Wear Layer – A clear protective coating that resists scratches, stains, and minor spills.
The wear layer offers some defense against water, but laminate planks aren’t sealed at the seams. If water seeps between boards, it can reach the core, causing swelling and damage.
Most spills can be wiped up easily, but standing water is a problem. If liquid soaks through, avoid walking on the wet area until it’s completely dried to prevent further damage.
What Level of Moisture Is Safe for Laminate Floors?
Laminate flooring can handle small spills if cleaned up quickly, but excess moisture is a serious risk. The biggest problem isn’t water sitting on the surface — it’s when liquid seeps into the seams and penetrates the core layer, causing warping, cupping, or buckling.
To protect your floors:
- Wipe up spills immediately to prevent moisture from seeping between planks.
- Avoid excessive mopping — use a damp (not wet) mop and dry the floor afterward.
- Consider a water-resistant underlayment or sealant for added protection.
If water does get under the flooring, act fast. The longer moisture sits, the more likely you’ll need to replace damaged planks.
How To Dry Laminate Flooring With Water Under It
Water trapped under laminate flooring can lead to warping, buckling, and mold growth if not addressed quickly. Here’s a step-by-step process to dry out your flooring and minimize damage.
Use dry towels to soak up minor spills. For deeper water, use a wet/dry vacuum or water pump. Avoid pressing down on wet areas, as this can push water deeper into the seams.
Use dehumidifiers to pull moisture from the air and flooring. Set up large fans or ceiling fans to improve airflow and speed up drying, and if possible, open windows and doors to allow fresh air to assist in the process.
A space heater with a fan can help evaporate moisture trapped beneath the flooring. Avoid excessive heat, which can cause warping.
If water has seeped underneath:
- Remove baseboards and trim around the water-damaged area.
- Start lifting planks from the groove side (near the wall) to avoid damage.
- Check for signs of mold — if present, replacement is often necessary.
If the flooring is severely damaged or swollen, it may need to be replaced.
Place floorboards near fans or dehumidifiers to dry. Keep them flat to prevent warping. If boards become misshapen, they may not be reusable.
If the underlayment is soaked, remove and replace it. If salvageable, clean it with mild soap and let it dry completely before reinstalling.
Scrub the subfloor with a mild soap solution to remove dirt. If mold is present, use a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water). Let the subfloor dry completely before reinstalling anything.
Use a mild, ammonia-free cleaner to wipe down planks. Dry thoroughly to prevent future moisture buildup.
If reusing the underlayment, ensure it’s completely dry and in good condition. When installing new underlayment, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper fit and sealing.
Carefully reinstall the planks, ensuring a tight fit at the seams. If the original flooring is too damaged, consider upgrading to water-resistant laminate or vinyl plank flooring for better durability.
Once the flooring is back in place, reinstall baseboards and trim using nails or adhesive.
If caught early, you may be able to dry your laminate flooring without replacement. However, if the damage is severe — especially with mold growth — it’s best to replace affected areas to prevent long-term issues.
Catching water damage early can save your laminate floors. The key is to act fast — remove water immediately, boost airflow, and check for hidden moisture. If damage is extensive or mold appears, replacing affected boards is the best long-term solution. Taking preventive steps, like using water-resistant underlayment, can help protect your flooring from future issues.
