If you have furniture that has been damaged by water, it is important to take the right steps to salvage what you can. Whether it is contaminated water from flooding or a sewage back-up, certain items may need to be discarded. Follow these measures to try and restore your furniture.
- Consider the source of water. If the damage is due to outdoor flooding that has inundated the house or from a sewage back-up, affected furniture should be considered contaminated. Certain items will therefore not be salvageable for this reason.
- Furniture with stuffing and/or cushions which have absorbed contaminated water must be discarded. Even in cases where Category 1 “clean” water is involved, mold and mildew issues will likely make drying cushions and thick padding very problematic and likely not worth the effort.
- Furniture constructed of veneered particle board that has been substantially soaked is usually damaged beyond repair due to the absorbency of particle board. These items will need to be discarded.
- Move salvageable solid wood furniture outdoors. Take out all drawers, open doors and remove back panels if possible.
- Spray down the furniture with a hose to remove mold, mud and other residue.
- Don't allow wooden furniture to dry in the sun. Rapid drying usually causes warping and deformation. Instead, furniture should be moved to a sheltered storage area with good ventilation and allowed to dry slowly.
- Be prepared to remove mildew or mold that can form on wooden furniture until moisture content drops. Spot treatment with soapy water or wiping down the surface with mineral spirits will usually eliminate it.
- For damaged items with sentimental value and which are irreplaceable, it may be worthwhile to consult a skilled furniture repair expert for issues such as loosened veneer, joints that have become unglued, discoloration of finish and other consequences of exposure to water.
What To Do If You Have Furniture Water Damage
Minimizing furniture water damage is an important aspect of restoring your home to normal. Water damage to furniture can be a distressing situation. However, by following the recommendations above, you can increase your chances of salvaging your valuable belongings. Remember to assess the source of the water and the level of contamination before deciding what items can be saved. If you're dealing with the aftermath of water damage, it is crucial to trust professionals who specialize in content cleaning and water damage cleanup services. Call Rytech Restoration today to ensure your furniture receives the proper care to return it back to normal.

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