I was called out to a fitness center today to look at their gymnasium. Apparently they had a small fire on the roof above the gym about a month ago and their was some water that got onto the floor. They say that they cleaned it up right away, and that seems to be true. The floor has a very small area (20sq ft or so) that the boards just barely are cupped, I have seen much worse from leaking dishwashers. I honestly think that they have dried out and the floor can be refinished. However, I don't want to sand the floor and have this happen again. My question is how can I be sure? I know I need to test the moisture of this part of the floor and maybe part of the floor that is way on the other side of the gym. What is an acceptable difference in the moisture of the 2 sides if any? What should the moisture level be at? Any help will be greatly appreciated.

I always check the damaged area, check several areas from 2 -20 feet away. Try to get an average mc of the undamaged areas, and don't sand until the damaged area is right on your avg mark. Same thing underneath sub floor .
We refinish alot, and see the "leaking dishwasher" effects among others, this method has worked so far.

But once you refinish it any residual moisture is trapped vs it being able to vent out as it is now. Is there any air space below it where the mositure could hide? If there is why not pull up some floor and check, then dehumidify it.

Thanks for the replies. I planned to do just as Floorpro suggested and test several different areas not damaged and compare the moisture level vs. the damaged area. I then think if necessary I will run a dehumidifier in that area and continue to retest until the 2 areas are reading the same. So I think my question has been answered. Thanks again.. Another question I have is; can anyone recommend a good moisture meter? I have had the same old one for years. It hasn't failed me yet, but I know they make nicer ones now days.

if the water damage happened a month ago. its probably dry already now..

if finished too soon, cupping wouldn't be an issue as it is already cupped.

crowning would be the result..

chances are it wold self correct.

but for arguments sake,....oak will cup at around 14 % in my experience..Maple is another animal..4-6% difference. usually results in dimensional change(cupping)

in most floor 1.5-2% seems normal fluctuation....

Delmhorst. J2000....about $300.00..

Dr. Wengert might question that. lol http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ViaNm8QI ... re=related

If I had to get a new meter it probably would not be a pin type. http://www.wagnermeters.com/technology.php