Should I Hire a Stone and Tile Inspector After My Floor Has Experienced a Flood?

If your stone or tile floor has been through a flood, you’re probably asking yourself, “What should I do next?” The answer might surprise you: hiring a professional stone and tile inspector could be one of the smartest moves you make. Here’s why calling in an expert is so crucial, especially after water damage, and why you shouldn’t wait until problems show up down the road.

Why Hire a Stone and Tile Expert?

After a flood, it’s easy to focus on what’s immediately visible. You may notice water stains, discoloration, or even some warping. But what about the damage that doesn’t show up until months—or sometimes even years—later? Here’s where a trained eye and specialized knowledge become essential. Stone and tile inspectors understand the nuances of how different materials react to water exposure and the type of damage that can emerge long after the initial cleanup.

Hidden Issues: The Silent Threat

Water damage can be insidious. Depending on the type of tile or stone, the extent of water exposure, and even the kind of water (clean, gray, or black water), problems can manifest at different times. For example:

• Porous Stone Materials: Natural stones like marble, limestone, and sandstone can absorb water. Even if they appear dry on the surface, trapped moisture can lead to long-term damage such as efflorescence (those white, powdery deposits) or even spalling (where the stone flakes or crumbles).
• Tile Adhesives and Subfloor: The adhesives and subfloor materials beneath your tiles can also suffer from water exposure. Damage to these unseen areas can cause tiles to loosen or crack over time.
• Mold and Mildew: Moisture trapped beneath stone or tiles can foster mold and mildew growth, which not only damages your floor but poses health risks as well.
• Salt Water Exposure: If the flood involved salt water, the issues could be even more severe. Salt can break down the structure of certain stones over time, leading to degradation that isn’t immediately visible.

The Delayed Impact of Water Damage

One of the biggest misconceptions is that if a stone or tile floor looks fine after a flood, it’s safe. However, water can be a slow-acting enemy. Depending on the conditions, problems can appear months or even years after the flood. Cracking, etching, or the development of unsightly stains can be delayed, especially if the stone or tile wasn’t properly assessed right after the incident.

Why Stone Forensics?

This is where a specialist like Stone Forensics comes into play. Stone Forensics has experts trained to look beyond the obvious, using specialized tools and techniques to identify potential problems before they become major issues. They don’t just spot current damage—they assess the risks for future problems, saving you headaches and expenses down the road.

Contact a Stone and Tile Expert

Hiring an experienced stone and tile inspector can be the difference between catching problems early and facing extensive repairs later. Fred Hueston at Stone Forensics is a recognized authority in this field, providing detailed inspections and actionable advice tailored to your situation. Don’t wait until a small problem turns into a major expense.

For more information or to schedule an inspection, contact Fred Hueston at:

• Phone: 321-514-6845
• Email: fhueston@stoneforensics.com

Remember, when it comes to stone and tile after a flood, taking a proactive approach with a professional inspection is not just a good idea—it’s essential.