On how to repair water damaged pressboard, there are 6 easy steps you can follow. This guide could be useful as pressboards are a common material used by several homeowners in various house areas — from living rooms to kitchens.
Accidents can happen, and sometimes pressboards experience and encounter water damage. Knowing how to repair them could save you from needing to replace the furniture entirely, which could cost you more.
Steps On Fixing Pressboards Damaged By Water
Pressboards are mostly used to create office products and inexpensive furniture such as desks, bookshelves, entertainment stands, and tables. While known for having short lives, this material serves and functions well. When you stumble upon water damage, there is no need to panic and check if replacing it is covered in your insurance just yet.
Here is a simple and easy 6 step guide to help you fix your pressboard.
Step #1. Dry off the wet area
The first step towards repairing your water damaged pressboard is by drying off the wet section. The natural drying process would take a long time, which is not advisable as prolonged exposure to water can further damage the board.
You can use a towel to help you soak up the excess water. A hairdryer is also an option, though it could take up a bit of time as well.
Step #2. Buff off the swollen area using sandpaper
Once it is dry, the surface may turn out uneven. You can buff off those raised areas using sandpaper. By buffing the damaged area, the surface will even and level out.
Buffing the board can expose the dried portion. You can remove the damaged sections.
Several sandpaper grits are available, so it is vital to know which one would do the job best. You can use medium-grit sandpaper to remove the damaged portions of the board. You can finish the buffing by using finer grit sandpaper for a smoother surface.
If the damage is minor, your work can end here!
Step #3. Remove damaged board with a knife
To remove the swollen portions of the board, you can use a knife. Any section with a powdery texture needs to go as well — vacuum to ensure that all powdery particles are gone.
Step #4. Add wood filler
Purchase a good wood filler. Make sure to read the labels attached to the can before using it!
Apply the mixture on the holes you made. Level and smooth it out using a scrape or knife. Scrape out any excess filler to ensure that the board is even.
Step #5. Sand the area
Wait for the filler to dry. Once again, sand the area. Use finer-grit sandpaper to smooth the board further.
You can follow that up with a coat of waterproof seal to strengthen its defenses against water.
Step #6. Final touches
It is recommended to paint pressboards. Since it’s vulnerable to water, paint can prevent and reduce moisture from getting into the board.
What Are The Tell-Tale Signs Indicating Water Damage To Pressboards?
The most tell-tale sign and warning for water damage is a bubbled-up and swollen surface that is an absolute contrast to its previous smooth texture. Once spotted, do not ignore it.
Wet pressboards offer an open invitation for mildew and mold. Also, it warps and stains easily. When wet, pressboards can sag under weight, which is unsafe and could lead to injury and further damage.
When wet boards expand and swell with moisture, they lose strength. It would be best to take action and repair pressboards immediately before the damage gets worse.
How To Protect Pressboards From Water
The best means to protect your pressboards is by doing extra preventive and precautionary measures. Install them in areas that are far or only have minimal contact and exposure to water and moisture. It is vital to note that these boards will likely swell and deform when exposed to high amounts and levels of humidity.
Avoid installing or placing them in the kitchen or bathroom. Also, it would be best to avoid driving nails or screws into the pressboard wood. It could potentially lose its shape.
Paint can serve as a defensive layer against moisture. You can also use an excellent waterproof seal for extra protection and defense.
Lastly, the pressboard should not be used for any outdoor application. It would not be able to withstand moisture from snow and rain for long.
Should You Repair Or Replace It?
If the damage is only minimal and affects a section, you can repair it using wood fillers. After repairing, it is still usable.
Although, if it’s a table, bookshelf, or desk, do note that it might not be able to handle and support the same weight as before. Consider reducing its load.
For badly and severely damaged pressboards, it might be best to replace them entirely. If you do not have any experience or knowledge about doing these repairs and replacements, it might be best to call and hire a professional for better results. You can call your lawyer and see if repairs and replacement of water damaged pressboards are included in the insurance coverage.
Conclusion
Pressboards are used to make various kinds of furniture for homes. Knowing how to repair water damaged pressboard can ensure that your house will remain stylish for a long time!