Unexpected natural disasters may destroy the contents of your home, including furnishings. If flooding occurs without prior warning, the furniture in your home can be relocated to areas where flood waters are less likely to reach. In either case, flooding provides a breeding ground for disease and bacteria. Like those caused by hurricanes or severe rainstorms, natural floods carry considerable amounts of pollution into the areas they affect. Bacteria such as coliform and E. coli, sewage water, chemicals, and heavy metals are all prevalent in neighborhoods with manufacturing facilities. When your home floods, microorganisms carried by the floodwaters are introduced into your home and property.
Dealing With Water Damaged Furniture
Following are some simple steps to take following a flood to save your furnishings.
Cleansing
Floodwaters frequently carry dirt and filth with them. Wipe your furniture down with a gentle cloth or brush. Avoid rubbing the dirt in; instead, whisk it away with soft strokes. You may need to use water to dislodge any stubborn dirt. Then, dry your furniture with a dry cloth.
Dry everything out.
You should make every attempt to immediately dry out your furnishings. Keep it dry and protected from the elements to avoid the damp wood from cracking and warping. If you still have standing water in your home or if your flooring is soggy, push your furniture up with bricks or blocks. Utilize fans or dehumidifiers to assist air circulation and accelerate the drying process. Avoid using high heat to dry your furniture (hair dryers, irons) since this will cause the wood to deteriorate.
Remove any cabinet doors and drawers to aid in the drying process. These may become stuck due to the wood swelling due to the water. If they become lodged, do not force them out; instead, examine them often as the swelling subsides to ensure that they can finally be removed during the drying process.
Control mildew and mold.
Regrettably, floodwater creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew growth. Mildew and mold spores are found worldwide and thrive in any moist, warm environment. As a result, monitor the drying process of your furniture. If your furniture is exposed to dampness for more than 48 hours, mildew or mold will grow. Remove it using a damp cloth dipped in a mild soapy water solution. Alternatively, you can combine white water and vinegar in a spray bottle and mist your furniture with it before wiping it clean.
Upholstered furniture.
Upholstered furniture that has been submerged in floodwaters will nearly always require reupholstering. Leather and vinyl upholstery are frequently more resistant to water damage than fabric upholstery. You can attempt to dry the furniture first, but if it smells musty or has noticeable water stains, you will almost surely need to resort to more invasive techniques.
Veneers and adhesives.
Flood damage may cause veneers on your furniture to peel away. Additionally, any glued-together furniture may begin to dissolve due to water, causing the glue to crumble. To ensure the lifespan of your furniture, you’ll want to contact a professional to assist you with repairs and veneer installation, simply look up “water damage restoration near me“
Conclusion
The majority of the furniture that suffered minor flood damage can be saved using the steps detailed below. However, considerable damage has been done on rare occasions, resulting in warping, cracking, or severe mildew and mold growth. In these instances, call a professional furniture restoration company to examine and restore the original state of your furniture.
