Water Damage Cleanup Specific Scenarios

How Long Can Furniture Sit in Water Before Being Ruined?

If your furniture has been exposed to water, it is important to act quickly to prevent further damage. The amount of time furniture can sit in water before being ruined depends on several factors, including the type of wood, the finish, and the temperature of the water.

In general, hardwood furniture, which may have a lacquer finish, is more resistant too water than softwood furniture, which is often finished with paint or wax, but may have a varnish finish. Solid wood furniture can generally withstand wet conditions better than veneered furniture.

Water that is warm or hot will cause damage to furniture more quickly than cold water. Furniture exposed to water for long periods should be dried quickly to prevent warping and mold growth.

The following tips can help you minimize the damage to your furniture:

• Remove the furniture from the water as soon as possible.
• If the furniture is made of fabric, remove the cushions and dry them separately.
• Use a fan or dehumidifier to dry the furniture.
• Do not use heat to dry the furniture, as this can cause warping.
• If the furniture is badly damaged, it may need to be professionally restored.

If you are not sure how to clean your water-damaged furniture, it is best to contact a professional water damage cleanup company.