Water damage is a common occurrence that can cause significant damage to your home and belongings. If you experience water damage, it is important to act quickly to prevent further damage and to ensure the safety of your family. Water damage cleanup is a complex process that requires specialized knowledge and equipment. In this blog, we will discuss specific scenarios of water damage and provide guidance on how long furniture can sit in water before being ruined.
The amount of time that furniture can sit in water before being ruined depends on several factors, including the type of furniture, the type of water, and the temperature of the water. In general, furniture made from solid wood, such as oak or mahogany, can withstand water damage for a longer period of time than furniture made from particle board or MDF. Furniture made from upholstered fabrics, such as cotton or linen, can also be damaged by water more quickly than furniture made from leather or vinyl.
The type of water also affects the amount of time that furniture can sit in water before being ruined. Salt water is more damaging to furniture than fresh water, and water that contains sewage or other contaminants can also cause significant damage.
The temperature of the water also affects the amount of time that furniture can sit in water before being ruined. Warm water can cause wood to swell and warp more quickly than cold water. If the water is warm enough, it can also cause the glue that holds furniture together to dissolve, which can lead to the furniture falling apart.
As a general rule of thumb, furniture should not be left in water for more than 24 hours. If furniture is left in water for longer than 24 hours, it is likely to be ruined and will need to be replaced.