Unexpected natural disasters may harm your home’s belongings, even furniture. If flooding occurs with sufficient warning, the furniture in your home can be relocated to areas where flood waters are less likely to reach. Floodwaters, in any case, contain a swarm of diseases and germs. Like those caused by hurricanes or heavy rainstorms, natural floods introduce enormous amounts of contaminants into the areas they affect. Bacteria like E.coli and coliform and sewage water, chemicals, and heavy metals can all be found in areas with manufacturing companies. Bacteria from the floodwaters infiltrate your home and property when it floods.
Dealing With Water Damaged Furniture
Here are some easy steps for you to get more information on what to do after a flood to save your furnishings.
Cleansing
Mud and dirt are frequently present in floodwaters. Wipe down your furniture using a soft cloth or brush. Instead of rubbing the dirt in, use soft strokes to whisk it away. Water may be required to loosen any stubborn dirt. Then, dry your furniture with a dry cloth.
Dry everything out.
Make every attempt to dry off your furnishings as soon as feasible. Keep it protected from the elements to keep the damp wood from cracking and warping. If there is still standing water present in your property or soggy flooring, prop up your furniture with bricks or blocks. Fans and dehumidifiers can help circulate the air and speed up the drying process. Heat (hair dryers, irons) will damage the wood, so avoid using them to dry your furniture.
Remove any cabinet doors and drawers to aid in the drying process. These may become stuck due to the water causing the wood to swell. If they become lodged, do not force them out; instead, examine them often as the swelling subsides so that they can be removed after the drying process is complete.
Control mildew and mold.
Regrettably, the wet environment created by floodwater is ideal for the growth of mold and mildew. Mildew and mold spores are everywhere, and they thrive in any moist, warm environment. As a result, keep an eye on your furniture as it dries. Mildew or mold will grow on your furniture if exposed to dampness for more than 48 hours. It must be removed with a damp cloth dipped in a mild soapy water solution. Alternatively, combine white water and vinegar in a spray bottle and spray it over your furniture before wiping it clean.
Upholstered furniture.
Flood-soaked upholstery will almost probably need to be reupholstered. Upholstery made of leather or vinyl is frequently more resistant to water damage than fabric upholstery. You can try to dry it first, but if the furniture smells musty or has extensive water stains, you will almost probably need to take more drastic measures.
Veneers and adhesives.
Flood damage can cause veneers on your furniture to peel away. Furthermore, any glued-together furniture may deteriorate since water can cause the glue to crumble. To protect the longevity of your furniture, you should engage a professional to help you make repairs and install new veneers, simply look up “restoration contractors near me”.
Conclusion
Most furniture that has suffered minor water damage can be saved using the steps provided. However, substantial damage has occurred in rare cases, resulting in warping, cracking, or severe mildew and mold growth. In such instances, call a professional furniture restoration company to examine and restore your furniture to its original condition.
