It can be frustrating to have water damage on wooden furniture, especially if it is an expensive piece. If you have a water damage problem, it could be from a broken pipe, a spilled cup of coffee, or a flood. The result can be unsightly staining, warping, and even mold. Restoring water-damaged hardwood furniture with the proper techniques and patience is possible. We will guide you in this guide through repairing damage to wood furniture. When the damage to your furniture is extensive, or you have questions about repairing it, searching for water restoration near me may help.
- Assess The Damage
You should determine the extent of the water damage prior to beginning the restoration process. A wood piece of furniture exposed to water can develop various issues.
- White or dark stains: When moisture enters the wood’s finishing, it causes discoloration.
- Swelling: When wood swells and deforms, it can result in misshaped surfaces or joint alignments.
- Breaking or cracking of wood: Extended exposure to moisture can cause wood to split or break, particularly if the wood dries up too quickly.
- The growth of mold on wood: When damp or humid conditions prevail, mold and mildew are likely to develop.
You’ll be able to determine the type of damage and its extent. Then, you can decide whether to take on the project yourself or seek professional help. Contacting a professional via a near-me query might be your best choice for severe damage, such as warping and cracking.
- Dry Your Furniture
It is essential to dry the wood completely before attempting to repair it. Further repairs can be ineffective or worsen the damage if you still have damp wood. Here’s how you can dry water-damaged furniture.
- Remove excess liquid: Use a clean, dry cloth or sponge to remove any water that is standing on furniture.
- Airdry Furniture: Place in a well-ventilated area, preferably in a room with fans that will increase the airflow. Avoid placing your furniture in direct sunlight, which can cause the wood’s surface to crack.
- Remove The Water Stains
Water stains often damage wood furniture. These stains typically appear as white or darker spots on the wood surface. To remove water stains, follow these steps.
To Darken Stains:
Dark stains may indicate that water has penetrated beyond the finish of the wood into the actual wood. To remove this deeper stain:
- Sanding: Rub the area with fine-grit sandpaper (220 or higher grit is best) until the spot becomes lighter. Do not sand excessively because you want to preserve the wood and finish.
- Apply Oxalic Acid: When dealing with darker stains that are more difficult to remove, you might need to use oxalic bleach (wood acid). Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mix the powder in water and apply the mixture to the stained surface. Once the stain begins to lighten, use clean water to wipe it off and allow the area time to dry.
If the wood is not restored to its former glory, refinishing it will be necessary.
- Repair Warping Or Cracking
The water in the wood can warp if it absorbs enough moisture. While minor warping and/or cracking can often be repaired, serious cases may require professional help. Here’s what you can do to resolve minor issues.
Fixing Wrinkling:
- Apply Pressure: Try placing a dampened cloth over the warped part of the wood and applying pressure with weights or clamps. Continue to apply pressure to the wood for a couple of days to restore it to its original shape.
- Steam the wood: Try using steam on more stubborn warping. For stubborn warping, use a steamer to soften the wood. Then, clamp the wooden piece as it cools.
- Refinishing Of Wood
Once you have repaired warping and cracking and removed stains from the wood, refinishing it will restore its natural beauty. Begin by sanding all surfaces to remove old finishes and create an even, smooth surface. Then, a new layer of paint or stains should be applied, followed by a protective finish such as polyurethane.
Conclusion
The damage caused by water on wood can be very frustrating, but you can usually restore the furniture with the proper tools and techniques. Following the steps above, you can repair any water damage, fix any warping or cracking, and refinish the furniture to make it look new. You should always consult an expert if your furniture has extensive damage. Water Restoration Finding professional help is important. If you need help, a restoration company with experience can help restore your furniture to its original glory.
