How Long Can Furniture Sit in Water Before Being Ruined?
When a water disaster strikes, it’s crucial to act quickly to minimize damage and ensure the safety of your belongings. Furniture is particularly susceptible to water damage, and the amount of time it can remain submerged before being ruined depends on several factors.
Factors Determining Furniture Damage:
- Type of Furniture: Upholstered furniture absorbs water more easily than wood or metal furniture, increasing its susceptibility to damage.
- Water Source: The type of water that damages furniture (clean water, sewage, etc.) can impact the severity and type of damage.
- Immersion Duration: The longer furniture remains submerged in water, the greater the likelihood of permanent damage.
Time Frames for Furniture Damage:
Generally, furniture can withstand water immersion for the following periods:
- Clean Water:
- Upholstered Furniture: Up to 1 day
- Wood Furniture: Up to 3 days
- Metal Furniture: Up to 7 days
- Sewage Water:
- Any Type of Furniture: No more than 24 hours
Note that these time frames are approximate and can vary depending on the individual piece of furniture and the conditions of the water damage.
Immediate Action for Water-Damaged Furniture:
- Remove furniture from the water source immediately.
- Place furniture in a well-ventilated area to dry.
- Open drawers and doors to promote airflow.
- Use fans or a dehumidifier to accelerate drying.
If furniture has been submerged for an extended period or in sewage water, it’s highly recommended to seek professional water damage cleanup services to prevent further deterioration and potential health hazards.