Water damage is a major hassle because it could drastically change the condition of your furniture and home. If you don’t take care, your possessions and property could be severely damaged. Furthermore, it may result in mold growth, severely affecting your property’s air quality and posing a health risk for the residents.
Damaged objects by water typically cannot be easily repaired. This is because, as time passes, they will weaken and become less durable and are more vulnerable to further damage from weather and bacteria. But, there’s still the possibility of a simple and safe repair for the wood damaged by water.
Restoring Wood Furniture from Water Damage
When you learn how to repair wood furniture damaged by the water, You can keep your valuable possessions safe and, in some instances, it is possible to avoid paying for replacements. Quick response and standard products can make your furniture last for years. If you’re looking for advice on salvaging your furniture after it’s been damaged due to water, keep reading.
1. Dry Your Furniture
The swelling of furniture damaged by water can be controlled simply by letting it air dry out. Dry the wet furniture as quickly as you can. The sun’s rays are the usual method for drying wood. After using this method for a certain amount of time, you’ll have to flip the wood over. The prolonged exposure to sunlight may cause the wood to shrink, split, and warp.
One more way to dry wood is to use electric fans and place the furniture in an area with good air circulation for a minimum of 24 hours.
For water removal services, you need the aid of professionals and a reputable firm to assess the problem and address it immediately.
2. Use an Iron or Hair Dryer
To dry wet wood, employ an iron. Applying a clean cloth over the affected area and ironing it at the lowest setting should do the trick. To get the best results, use the iron to iron your towel for 15 to 20 mins or until the fabric begins to dry. Keep the iron moving to prevent burning.
An alternative to iron is using a hair dryer set to its lowest temperature setting. Make sure to keep it at an appropriate distance (about 6 inches) from the wood’s surface, and move it around so that it stays cool, no matter where it is. Continue to do this until there aren’t any more water bubbles and the wood is completely dry.
3. Remove Water Bubbles
A printer or needle can eliminate water bubbles on the wood’s surface. You can remove the water in the bubble by simply poking a needle or piece of paper.
Making holes in the bubbles of water will help release air and water trapped within the furniture that is swollen. Continue this process till the furniture is dry, and there are no bubbles. It’s easy to get rid of water bubbles without harming the wood.
Furniture and homes can be restored after a flood. Contacting a company for flood damage remediation should be your first and foremost action.
4. Sand and Finish
You can sand and finish the swollen furniture once it has dried. Protect yourself with protective gear to avoid injury, which includes goggles, gloves, and a mask. The swelling can be eliminated with coarse sandpaper if the wood is still swelling. Sanding too much can cause rough surfaces.
Then, sand the whole piece of furniture with the finer grit of sandpaper. When you do this, rough spots within the wood are removed, and the wood can be readied for finishing. After sanding is completed, you’ll have the option of sealing or painting the wood.
5. Flatten the Wood
Once the wood is dry and finished, you can use a wood flattening tool to remove any remaining water damage. This can help restore the wood to its original form and protect it from tears and wear. Be sure to wear safety equipment such as goggles or gloves and a mask to protect yourself from injury.
