If you wonder why does wood get damaged by water, it is because we cannot remove the fact that wood is still a natural material. Concerning this, they are one of the sensitive materials, especially when exposed to water.
However, despite knowing that wood is a natural material making them sensitive, you also need to look for other reliable information. This will help you identify the dos and don’ts in dealing with something made of wood.
Now, you will be given a chance to broaden your knowledge about using wood as your material through this article. Continue reading this article to find out more!
Water Damaged Wood
Wood is a material that can use for floorings, furniture, and other surfaces in your home. Most people are really fond of using wood as a material because they believe it is easy to use, making it more convenient.
However, wood is a sensitive material, so we need to take a lot of consideration. Remember that wood is susceptible to water or any other moisture, leading to a massive possibility of encountering problems and damage.
When wood is being combined with any amount of water, what do you think will happen? Sometimes a result of possible damage can be seen instantly, but in some ways, it will undergo a lot of time before it shows up.
Moreover, it would be best if you also remembered that wood is a natural material making them vulnerable when exposed to water. This exposure will result in rot or mold, which is considered a problem, especially when there is no protection for the wood.
Wood rot happens when the moisture content is already about 20%. Therefore, you still have a chance to save any area made of wood by immediately removing the moisture and not letting it reach the 20% content.
If ever you are curious about the signs that can help you identify a water damaged wood, you can try it by visiting how to detect water damaged wood.
Effects Of Water On Wood
Water is a major problem for wood which brings many impacts. Upon water exposure, wood weakens, falls apart, and has a vast possibility of mold growth.
Shrinking and swelling can also happen because the moisture content is never consistent as it changes over time. However, other effects could happen depending on the type of wood.
Listed below are some of them that you can rely on to better understand the different reactions of wood to water exposure.
Type #1. Hardwood
When hardwood is exposed to water, there is a tendency that the hardwood will get stains and discoloration. Sometimes hardwood also lifts the nails and floorboards attached when exposed to water resulting in damage.
Type #2. Softwood
Softwood may be a lighter and cheaper type of wood, but they also have the same reaction as hardwood when exposed to water. Aside from that, some softwood also experiences shrinkage and swelling, making them more complicated to stay durable.
Type #3. Plywood
Plywood is considered one of the most sensitive types of wood as they contain different layers that are glued together. When they are exposed to water, there is a tendency that the moisture content will be high enough.
Concerning this, plywood is prone to warping and falling apart when there are chances of water exposure.
Type #4. Particleboard
This type of wood is commonly used in different furniture in your home. However, they become weak when exposed to too much moisture, leading to severe damage.
Things To Remember in Water Damaged Wood
When you have water damaged wood, it is said to be best to replace it because it is more convenient and helpful than fixing it. For your information, it is more convenient because it will help you save time, money, and effort.
However, if you wish to fix it, you have the freedom to do so. You just have to follow some steps to achieve it.
Remember that you have to remove the moisture and water that surrounds it. You also have to guarantee that no mold and mildew are visible around the area.
These rules basically represent that a wood affected by water should be clean and disinfected before proceeding to another step. You must clean it thoroughly to ensure that you totally remove all the excess.
If you want to understand more about the cleaning process, you can always check out how to clean water damaged wood base for more helpful information.
When it comes to the drying process, you can depend on an air dryer or a vacuum for better results. Remember that it is not advisable to use a hairdryer and heater because it will only worsen the crack and damage in the wood.
Conclusion
Upon finishing this article, you are now aware of why does wood get damaged by water. Wood is indeed one of the sensitive materials we can use to build something, so we need to be extra careful.
Do not forget that wood is considered a natural material, making them more complicated. This is why it is better to be aware of the essential things you need to remember.
This article will also provide you with answers and tips about what you can and cannot do, which you can consider in handling this material. If, in any case, you are confused, you can always rely on this article as it can help you throughout the process.