In mild cases, wooden furniture will lose its shine, becoming dull and lackluster. Alternatively, wood may change color when exposed to water, resulting in uneven coloring.
In more severe cases, if wooden furniture is soaked in water for an extended period, it may warp, rot, crack, or even develop mold. This can cause an unpleasant odor and pose health risks to your family members.
So, what can you do when your wooden furniture gets wet or flooded?
For minor water incidents, the solution is simple. Just use a dry cloth or paper towel to absorb the water and remove any excess moisture from the solid wood table surface.
If your wooden furniture has been flooded, follow these steps:
– Dry the wood surface: Use a clean, dry cloth to gently wipe down the wood, ensuring no standing water remains.
– Place the furniture in a well-ventilated area with low humidity to allow the wood to air dry.
To speed up the drying process, you can use an electric fan. Position the fan towards an open window to create a flow of fresh air, aiding in the drying process.
If you have a heater or air purifier, turn it on to reduce humidity in the space.
Additionally, apply a suitable wood preservative and mold inhibitor to the furniture, following the manufacturer’s instructions. This will help prevent mold and rot.
Once your wooden furniture is dry, inspect it for any cracks, rot, or warping. If the wood is rotten, determine the extent of the damage to decide if replacement is necessary.
For cracked furniture, use a wood filler to fill in the cracks. Once the filler is dry, smooth the surface. If the furniture has lost its color or changed color due to flooding, repaint it with high-quality wood paint. Then, apply a wood finish to restore the shine and protect the surface from environmental damage.
