One of the most functional and even valuable items you have in your home is your furniture. And, this can get the hardest hit when water breaks into your house. But, what really happens to your furniture when it gets wet? Can it be salvaged? How’s the process of salvaging furniture water damage? Allow us to give you in-depth information about water damaged furniture and how to deal with this unexpected and terrifying scenario.
Determine the type of water
Before taking any steps in cleaning your furniture, it is best to consider the risk factors present in the water. By that, we can determine the level of pathogens found in the water and what actions should be taken to salvage your furniture. Water damage is divided into three categories.
Category 1 or clean water is the water from leaky faucets or water that overflows from sinks or bathtub. This type of water does not contain any threats to your health.
Category 2 or grey water is the type of water that contains some form of contaminants. It might not be that harmful, but it could lead you to discomfort to the skin when contacted. Water from a toilet bowl, dirty water from washing machine and malfunctioned sump pump are just some of the sources of grey water.
Category 3 or black water is nasty water. It is most contaminated and poses threats to your health. This water comes from outdoor flooding or raw sewage.
If your furniture was damaged due to flood water or sewage back-up, it is less likely or in very rare cases salvageable as it contains contaminants that can be very harmful to your health when contacted. When the furniture is considered really valuable and you want it salvaged, you may call for professional help.
How to clean water damaged furniture
To start with, you need to move your furniture away from the water as quickly as possible. The longer you take action, the greater the damage will be. Upholstered pieces and wood pieces are the two most common type of furniture that gets water damage.
How to clean water damaged upholstery
Cleaning upholstered furniture is a very tricky thing to tackle and in most cases, water damaged upholstery is beyond saving especially when it gets soaked with black water. Furniture that was saturated with grey water requires pressure treated with very high-temperature water that kills any bacteria and other pathogens present. Then, it has to be properly dried. It is recommended to store upholstered furniture in a place where you can set up air movers and dehumidifier. Place the air movers in the position that allows hot air to pass over and through furniture. It is also necessary to include an industrial-strength humidifier in the room to absorb the moisture from wet upholstery.
How to clean water damaged wood furniture
In most cases, wood furniture can be salvaged. However, it needs proper steps of treatment to keep it strong and functional. When the wood furniture experienced severe damage, it has to be stripped down and the pieces should be removed. Make sure to dry out every piece before refinishing it. Loose joints should be glued. When you are experiencing severely damaged pieces, it is better left with professionals as it requires special tools and equipment to be restored. More importantly, they are expert in dealing with this issue and can assure you that they can bring back the beauty of your furniture.
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