The top 4 causes of water damage in homes

2/13/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Team Shaw trucks in warehouse.

??Water damage can be a costly, time-consuming problem for homeowners. From flooding to plumbing issues, water damage can quickly spiral into an expensive and dangerous situation. Knowing the most common sources of water damage in homes is key to preventing it from happening in the first place. Let’s break those down now.

Plumbing Leaks 

One of the most common causes of water damage is plumbing leaks. These leaks can range from minor drips to major bursts that require immediate attention. It’s important to check all your plumbing fixtures regularly and fix any leaks you find as soon as possible. Failing to do so could result in significant amounts of water leaking into your walls and floors, causing both structural damage and mold growth. 

Roof Leaks 

Another common source of home water damage is roof leaks. Even a small leak can cause considerable amounts of damage if left unchecked for too long, as the leaked water will slowly seep into your walls and ceilings, eventually leading to mold growth and/or dry rot. Make sure you inspect your roof regularly for signs of wear and tear, such as missing or damaged shingles, cracked flashing, or other signs that could lead to a leaky roof. 

Appliance Malfunctions 

Appliances like refrigerators and washing machines are another common source of water damage in homes. Appliance malfunctions can range from potential flooding caused by a leaking fridge or dishwasher to mold growth caused by excessive dampness in your laundry room due to a malfunctioning washing machine or dryer vent. Make sure you inspect all your appliances regularly to ensure they are functioning properly and aren’t at risk for causing any type of water-related disaster!  

Weather Conditions

Weather conditions like heavy rain, hail, snowfall, hurricanes, and floods all have the potential to cause water damage if they are severe enough or occur frequently enough. You should inspect your roof regularly for any signs of wear or weakness that could make it more susceptible to weather-related damage. Additionally, make sure all windows and doors are closed securely when storms hit so as not to create an entryway for excess moisture into your home. 

Water damage is one of the most destructive forces that can affect your home, especially if not addressed quickly. But thankfully, there are many things you can do to help prevent it from happening in the first place. Taking proactive steps (like regularly checking pipes and hoses for leaks or cracks, inspecting roofs prior to storm season, and ensuring appliances are maintained properly) can help you avoid water damage and the costly repairs that come with it.

Your guide to restoration companies in Texas

1/25/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO restoration truck

If you’re a property manager or business owner in Texas and you’ve recently experienced any type of property damage, it’s important that you find a high quality restoration company in your area. From water and fire damage repair to mold remediation and smoke removal, the right restoration company can help you get your building back into operational mode quickly. Let’s break down what you should look at when selecting restoration companies in Texas.

Research & Reviews 

The best place to start is with research and reviews. Look for reviews from people who have used restoration services before. Google and Facebook Reviews are perfect places to start. Pay close attention to the type of service provided by each company, as well as expectations, timelines, and service quality. 

Check Company Credentials 

When researching restoration companies in Texas, it’s also important to check their credentials. Make sure that they are certified and they are accredited by the BBB (Better Business Bureau) – since this can show that they adhere to high standards when it comes to customer service practices. Additionally, make sure they are insured in case any accidents or damages occur.

Get Referrals 

Another great way to find reliable restoration companies in Texas is by asking friends, family members, neighbors or colleagues if they have had experience with these types of services before. Getting referrals from people who have used specific companies can be very helpful because it gives you an inside look into how well these companies work in practice—not just what they might say about themselves online or through advertising materials. 

Verify Their Processes 

When selecting a restoration contractor, it’s important to make sure they have established processes in place when it comes to safety and security. Ask questions about their policies when it comes to hazardous materials disposal, noise control measures, sanitization protocols, and other safety-related topics that may be relevant for your project. It is also important that all contractors are licensed professionals who abide by local building codes and regulations. 

Finding the right restoration company in Texas for your needs can be tricky. But by following these steps, you can ensure that you find a restoration company that is experienced and reliable enough for your needs.

Water restoration in Texas after a storm

1/20/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage in a home

In the wake of a storm, many homeowners in Texas may find themselves dealing with water damage in their homes. Whether it's flooding from broken pipes, heavy rains, or even hail damage, there are steps that you can take to restore your home and make sure that you're safe and secure again. Let’s look at what some of these steps are. 

Assess the Damage 

Before anything else, it’s important to assess the damage done to your property and make sure that it is safe for you and your family. Ensure that all power sources are shut off to prevent further damage or injury. If the water has reached any electrical outlets or wiring, do not touch them without first consulting an electrician. Make sure to also wear protective gear such as boots and gloves when assessing the damage so that you aren’t exposed to any hazardous materials such as mold or bacteria. 

Call a Professional 

Once you have assessed the water damage and/or structural damage done to your property, it’s important to contact a professional water restoration company right away. These companies specialize in restoring homes after storms and floods, and they can help ensure that your house is restored safely and quickly. A professional water restoration company will also be able to identify any potential structural problems caused by the floodwater and can provide advice on how best to repair them. They may also be able to help you contact and work with your insurance company.

Cleanup & Restoration

After calling a professional water restoration company, it’s time for the remediation and restoration process to begin. This will likely include removing any standing water, drying out your walls and flooring, reconstructing any structural damage that occurs during the storm or during the cleanup process, and content restoration (restoring damaged items like rugs, clothing, and linen). 

Keep in mind, even if it looks like your flooding was minimal, your interior walls or flooring could still be heavily soaked. Because of this, it might be necessary to pull off baseboards and remove sections of the drywall or flooring in order to thoroughly dry the area. This is important to avoid future structural damage, as well as potential mold growth.

Water damage after a storm can be devastating but with quick action you can restore your home safely and efficiently with help from a professional water restoration company. These companies can help you reduce hurdles, maximize your input from any insurance companies, and avoid future issues. 

Three Main Types of Winter Hazards and How to Address Them

12/28/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO® of Coppell and West Addison goes over three common winter hazards and how restoration services can help take care of water damage.

Winter is a great time to enjoy the cold weather and holiday festivities, but homeowners should be aware of several hazards during winter. SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison shares the three main types of winter threats and how seasonal hazards and restoration services go hand in hand.

1. Slips and falls

Being active in the winter is just as important as being active any other time of year, but it's imperative to be as careful as possible. Remember to wear a helmet and protective gear when skiing and snowboarding, and shoes with proper traction while running.

Even exiting a vehicle on an icy driveway can lead to an unfortunate slip-and-fall accident, so always be aware of the surrounding area at all times. If homeowners notice ice freezing over on a walkway, find the source of the water and shut it off to prevent hazards.

2. Spike in sickness

The winter months can cause a spike in the flu and other illnesses. Many people don't think about this winter seasonal hazard, but when people are inside more, germs can spread quickly. Plus, cold and dry air can weaken immune resistance. If an illness is a concern, go the preventative route by getting a flu shot and keeping hands clean and physical contact to a minimum to reduce the chances of catching a winter cold or flu.

A knowledgeable water damage restoration company can quickly take care of water damage from a burst pipe, but a winter cold can be more challenging.

3. Water damage

Water damage can sneak up on a home or business during the winter months due to cold weather conditions such as:

• Burst pipes: When pipes freeze, they can burst, causing slow leaks that spread water and mold damage throughout a home.
• Blizzards: A blizzard is blowing or falling snow with winds of at least 35 mph. This dangerous type of storm reduces visibility and can lead to water damage once the snow melts.
• Sleet: Sleet is rain or melting snow that freezes before it hits the ground. Even though it's softer than hail, it can still make roads slippery and damage a home or business, requiring storm damage restoration.
• Freezing rain: If it starts to rain in freezing temperatures, the water can freeze once it makes contact with the ground. Once the ice melts, that water can seep into a home's foundation and cause structural damage.

Unfortunately, the weather can be unpredictable—especially during the winter. That's why it's essential to work with a certified water damage restoration company like SERVPRO that understands seasonal hazards and restoration.

SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison has water damage under control

Wintertime brings joy, but it can also bring hazards that can put a damper on holiday get-togethers. The expert team at SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison can address seasonal hazards, like burst pipes and floods, with water damage repair. SERVPRO offers 24-hour emergency service, advanced technology and equipment, and a highly trained and experienced team that provides top-notch customer support every step of the way.

For more information regarding seasonal hazards and restoration services in Love Field, TX, or surrounding areas, contact Team Shaw of SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison at (972) 233-8400.

What to consider when hiring a reputable fire and water damage restoration company

12/28/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO® of Coppell and West Addison, a premier fire and water damage restoration company in the Dallas, Texas, area goes over several important factors to look for in a restoration company to choose a reliable team for restoration services after fire or water damage.

Assessing property damage after fire or water damage is stressful, as is choosing a reliable and cost-effective fire and water damage restoration company. The team at SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison breaks down exactly what to look for when choosing a fire and water damage restoration company that will get the job done quickly and effectively. 

1. Experience

When it comes to hiring a top-tier fire and water damage restoration company, experience is essential. The right company will have years of experience to fix the problem with little disruption to the home or business. For damage after a fire, homeowners should look for a company with fire restoration services. For a leaky pipe, look for a company with water damage restoration and mold remediation services.

The company should also be well known and respected in the community with a history of good reviews.

2. A highly-trained team

A fire and water damage restoration company is only as strong as its individual team members, which is why extensive training is essential. Some crucial training and certifications to look for in a fire and water damage restoration company include the following:

• IICRC training: The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certifies and sets standards for the fire and water damage restoration industry. If a company utilizes this training, that's a sign that they're extremely knowledgeable.
• In-depth employee training: In addition to IICRC training, a reputable fire and water damage restoration company should offer thorough training to all its employees and certifications they can earn.
• Continuing education: Responsible fire and water damage restoration companies understand that industry standards can change over time and offer continuing education opportunities to their employees.

SERVPRO keeps up with IICRC standards and holds restoration certifications, including Applied Microbial Remediation Technician, Applied Structural Drying Technician, and Commercial Carpet Maintenance Technician.

3. Exceptional customer service

A reputable fire and water damage restoration company ensures customer satisfaction from start to finish and helps clients through the insurance claims process. Any restoration team should offer comprehensive services and work quickly—typically within minutes of receiving an initial call. The company should have a 24/7 emergency call service to provide restoration services when customers need them most.

SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison: Local fire and water damage restoration expert

When it comes to extensive experience, thorough employee training, and top-notch customer service, look no further than SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison. Its team can assess the extent of the damage and get to work fast, reducing the stress that can come with fire and water damage.

In fact, SERVPRO's motto is "Like it never really happened," as the team strives to make any home or business look and function as well as it did before experiencing damage. SERVPRO invests in advanced technology and techniques and provides fast, 24-hour emergency restoration services for their clients' ultimate peace of mind.

For more information about fire and water damage restoration in the Dallas area and Hillcrest Oaks, TX, contact Team Shaw of SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison at (972) 233-8400.

Top 4 Winter season disasters that you should be aware of

12/13/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO® of Coppell and West Addison gives property owners tips on protecting themselves from winter hazards, including how to heat their homes safely, prepare for the winter, weather winter storms, and respond when disaster strikes.

SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison is a leading commercial and residential damage restoration service provider.

When families and businesses are the victims of disasters that cause widespread water and fire damage or face small-scale emergencies, the certified and trained restoration professionals at SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison are ready to provide the needed restoration services.

1. Winter storms

When the winter season arrives with its share of weather-related challenges, it might be impossible to avoid seasonal hazards and restoration. However, homeowners can minimize the damage that wind, snow, and rain cause, by taking proactive steps before the storm hits:

• Board up the windows.
• Secure outdoor decorations and lawn furniture to protect the home from flying debris.
• Install a sump pump to handle water in the basement.
• Inspect the roof for damage before winter and repair any spots that might be vulnerable to snow and ice.
• Clean the gutters and any debris.

Winter storms are among the most devastating seasonal hazards, and restoration efforts can be expensive. Ice storms can bring down power lines and make roads impassable. Homeowners should make plans to shelter in place and protect their homes if the weather makes it difficult to get help.

2. Burst pipes due to cold snaps

The weather can turn cold suddenly in Texas. Don't leave pipes vulnerable to freezing. Burst pipes are preventable seasonal hazards, and restoration costs might not be necessary if homeowners take the following preventative steps:

• Know how to turn off the water at the first sign of a leak.
• Allow a trickle of water to flow through the pipes.
• Insulate exterior pipes.
• Open cabinets to allow warm airflow around pipes under sinks.
• Prevent pipe corrosion by using gentle cleaners to remove clogs.

3. Fires from home heating

During the winter, many homeowners and businesses use space heaters, electric blankets, and aging HVAC systems to keep warm. They also place greater demands on their water heater. Every heating element is potentially a fire hazard if it malfunctions or if homeowners fail to use it properly.

Fire damage makes it difficult to bounce back without the help of a professional fire and water damage restoration company. When firefighters put out fires with water, they leave behind water damage and prime conditions for mold. If a fire breaks out, remediate the fire and water damage as soon as possible.

4. Sewer line backups

Sewer lines can back up for several reasons, including tree roots damaging the pipe, clogs, and blocked sewer vents. Have a professional plumber snake your sewer drain lines periodically to remove clogs and service the sump pump to prevent sewer line backups in the cold winter weather.

When winter season disasters hit, call SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison

As a local restoration company, SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison proudly provides the community with seasonal hazards and restoration services. They serve the communities of Coppell, TX, and West Addison with compassion, professionalism, efficiency, and talent. The company gives customers the attentive personal service of a small company with the resources and the reach of a large one. Contact Team Shaw of SERVPRO of Coppel at (972) 233-8400.

Minimizing Fire and Water Damage in the Fall: A Brief Guide

12/7/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO® of Coppell and West Addison, a leader in fire and water damage restoration services, provides a comprehensive guide on ways people can minimize water and fire damage in the fall.

Fire and water damage can severely affect the home and wallet, especially when homeowners don't know where to begin. SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison advises taking precautions to mitigate these damages and provide affordable fire and water damage restoration services. What can home and business owners do to help?

1. Schedule a roof inspection

A roof inspection assesses the condition and safety of a roof going into the colder months. Trees can cause severe damage in the fall and winter, even more so when their branches are heavy with snow or hail. Some signs of water damage include ceiling stains, roof dips, or lost shingles.

2. Clean out gutters

Fall weather involves heavy rain and chances of snow. Wet leaves, dirt, and other natural debris dangerously clog gutters, leaving no place for water to travel away from the structure. Thoroughly cleaning gutters in the fall can help prevent water damage and flooding in the basements and homes.

3. Clear debris

Wet leaves or summer storm debris can weigh down gutters and your roof, leading to damage and problems like mold, rot, or water damage. One of the greatest dangers of water damage is the destruction of a roof's structure and the support of the home.

4. Keep fireplaces safe

Cleaning the chimney and fireplace is necessary for fall home maintenance and ensures it is ready for winter use. Soot buildup can start a deadly fire, but cleaning it keeps everyone safe. Homeowners can schedule chimney and fireplace inspections to resolve issues and tackle repairs.

To keep fireplaces safe, follow these steps:

• Never leave fires unattended.
• Only burn small fires and avoid overloading the fireplace with wood.
• Use a glass door, guard, or fireplace screen as a safety barrier.

5. Check fire extinguishers & replace smoke alarm batteries

Some people never use their smoke alarms or fire extinguishers but should have them prepared in case a fire happens. When a home is on fire, everyone inside needs to know immediately, and smoke alarms with old batteries can fail to alert. Fire extinguishers are beneficial in the case of smaller fires, so everyone in a home should learn where they are and how to use them.

6. Winterize hoses & sprinkler systems

Detaching hoses from the hose bib prevents the line from freezing and potentially bursting from expanded ice. Winterizing sprinkler systems is also critical to hinder a damaging rupture that harms the home's structure and causes basement flooding.

Fire and water damage restoration from SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison

SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison serves the areas of Coppell and West Addison, TX, offering water and fire damage repair and restoration services to keep home and business owners safe. The time following these stressful events can leave people wondering how they will afford to clean up and move on, but SERVPRO offers affordable and honest pricing. They can perform fall maintenance and inspections to help get homes and businesses ready for the season.

Call SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison at (972) 233-8400 for a service quote. Do not hesitate to contact their team for emergency fire and water damage restoration.

6 Questions to Ask When Hiring a Water Damage Restoration Company

12/7/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO® of Coppell and West Addison, an expert in water damage restoration services, details six questions homeowners should ask before hiring a company.

Following a severe rain or winter storm, an overflowing toilet, or flooding from a burst pipe, you may need water damage restoration services. However, spending hours Googling the right company can be highly stressful. 

This guide will explore six questions homeowners in Las Colinas, TX, should ask before hiring a water damage restoration company to make the vetting process easier.

1. How much experience does the company have? 

Restoring a home or business following significant water damage can be tricky. The process involves cleaning up water, mold remediation, and restoring walls, furniture, floors, and more. 

The right water restoration company will have plenty of experience handling specific types of water damage or flood damage homeowners are dealing with.

2. Do technicians have the right qualifications? 

Any water damage restoration technician should have the right qualifications, training, licenses, and insurance to perform their job. These qualifications mean they're up to date with the latest industry practices.

3. Does the company use the latest equipment and industry standards? 

The restoration industry frequently improves to incorporate new equipment, technology, and industry standards. The latest equipment ensures faster completion and more efficient solutions. 

For mold remediation, ensure that a company uses hospital-approved cleaning solutions and tough solvents to eliminate mold, viruses, and bacteria.

4. Does the company offer 24/7 emergency services? 

Water damage or mold growth is never convenient. However, they're incredibly inconvenient when they happen overnight. Disasters can strike anytime, and some situations call for immediate action outside the usual business hours.  

The right company will offer 24/7 emergency services. This service means homeowners don't have to wait until morning or the next day to deal with a flooded basement.

5. Is the company truly local? 

When searching for a local water damage restoration company, most people expect the search results to be local. Unfortunately, these results are sometimes misleading. 

Some businesses only have a few locations but say they'll travel far to offer their services. A company traveling far to provide services can present three problems: 

• Emergencies: Some issues don't require immediate attention, and homeowners can wait an hour or more. However, emergency flooding requires immediate help, and a company far away won't get there in time.  
• A lack of local knowledge: Knowledge of a specific area can significantly improve service. A local restoration company may know specific sewage lines that cause homeowners issues.  
• Extra fees: While many reputable companies or contractors won't charge travel fees, some might. Usually, companies are upfront about these fees, but they can still take homeowners by surprise. 

6. Does the team cooperate with insurance companies?

Many homeowners cannot pay for water damage restoration out of pocket. Insurance companies will cover water damage restoration services depending on the homeowner's insurance policy. Choose a restoration company that works with insurance companies and can help document the damage and file a claim.

Let SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison assist today! 

Dealing with water damage of any kind or size can present many problems. Instead of searching for a water damage restoration company, homeowners can put their trust in SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison. 

Call Team Shaw of SERVPRO of Coppel and West Addison at (972) 233-8400 for water damage restoration in Las Colinas, TX!

Five Common Fire Hazards and Tips to Avoid Fire Damage

10/20/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO® of Coppell and West Addison, North Dallas’s leading fire, storm, and water damage restoration company, details five of the most common fire hazards and advises readers on how to avoid fire damage.

Fire hazards at home and in the workplace increase the risk of fires or worsen fire damage. During a fire, fire hazards prevent firefighting equipment from functioning correctly and prevent individuals from getting out safely. Fire hazards include any materials that obstruct fire safety tactics.

Fire Hazards come in many shapes and sizes, ranging from unmonitored candles to building materials susceptible to fire damage.

Managing fire damage without a fire restoration company can be challenging, depending on the indoor environment’s fire risk level. Risk increases as more hazards exist in one location. Some threats may only pose a high fire damage risk in certain conditions.

Five common fire hazards

It’s crucial to be aware of the many potential fire hazards in a home or business. The following are some of the most common residential and commercial fire damage sources.

1. Worn electrical wiring: Damage to electrical cables and cords from prolonged use, rodent chewing, and other wear and tear issues can result in severe fire damage. Sparking wires may quickly ignite hazardous materials on the floor and walls.
2. Malfunctioning equipment or appliances: Between coffee makers, HVAC systems, and electrical machinery, there are many opportunities for fires to develop when these items become faulty. Worn-out appliance cords may spark when plugged into electrical outlets. In some cases, electrical sparks from damaged circuit boards may start the instantaneous combustion of flammable materials in and around these appliances. Always have the home and workplace appliances checked by professionals to prevent fire damage.
3. Unattended lit cigarettes: Falling asleep with a lit cigarette or not putting a cigarette out after a work break can lead to significant fire damage. According to the findings of the National Fire Protection Association, in 2016, an estimated 16,500 house structure fires were caused by smoking materials such as cigarettes, pipes, and cigars, as reported to U.S. fire agencies.
4. Open flames: Unattended flames, such as those on candles and gas stoves, are common fire hazards that can start a house fire. Accidental knocking or leaving a burning candle unattended has been reported to cause a fire in residences, while NFPA further reports that in 2020 alone, nearly 49% of home fires in the US have originated from the kitchen involving cooking equipment.
5. Flammable chemicals: Flammable chemicals in factories and other industrial applications can cause significant, toxic fires. Chemical accelerants in the area may worsen fire damage upon exposure. In home fires reported to fire departments, chemical fires often happen after chemical reactions in the garage and storage spaces. It is always essential to read and follow storage instructions on the label of fire hazard chemicals used at home and workplaces.

How to avoid fire damage

Avoiding fire damage in the home and workplace is vital. Businesses should follow  Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards regarding fire hazards to suppress fires quickly. Employees must pay careful attention to chemical and accelerant labels to understand the fire damage risk.

In the home, it’s best to monitor open flames and keep fire hazards out of reach of children or pets. It’s also essential to maintain damaged electrical wiring, appliances, and other fire damage risks. Ensuring the fireplace and cigarette ashes are completely cool before putting them in the trash is another best practice to adopt.

If a fire occurs in a home or business, get fire restoration services immediately to prevent extensive damage and reduce the harmful effects of smoke. Professionals can help.

How SERVPRO® of Coppell and West Addison Can Help

SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison is one of the local leaders in water damage restoration, storm damage restoration, and fire damage restoration. Whether it is extensive fire damage from an oil fire or an electric clothes dryer caught on fire, they can implement the most effective cleaning and restoration processes.

Get a residential or commercial fire damage restoration from SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison. The team utilizes industry-standard restoration techniques and state-of-the-art equipment. They are licensed, bonded, and insured to restore a fire-damaged home or workplace.

Contact Team Shaw of SERVPRO® of Coppell and West Addison in Bluffview, TX, at (972) 233-8400 today and learn more about their fire damage restoration services.

How to Repair Water Damage on Wood Furniture: A Concise Guide

10/20/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO® of Coppell and West Addison explains how water can damage wooden furniture and provides expert guidance for repairing wooden furniture after water damage occurs.

Water seeps deep into porous wooden furniture, softening the wood and spurring mold and mildew growth. Visible water damage indicators include water stains, white spots, and other discoloration. 

White spots indicate that the water hasn’t penetrated the wood’s surface, while dark marks indicate significant damage that has penetrated the seal. Depending on the severity of the water-damaged wooden furniture, it may be wise to obtain water damage restoration from experts like SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison.

How to repair water-damaged wood furniture

Repairing water damage on wood furniture requires a careful damage restoration process. This process avoids creating further problems while resolving existing issues.

Professionals like SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison make wood furniture repair quick and easy. They’ll perform the following steps to repair furniture after water damage.

Remove moisture

The first step to repairing water-damaged wood furniture is to remove moisture. Drying solutions like hair dryers remove moisture quickly. However, they can worsen warping and cause breakage. 

Furniture should sit under direct sunlight for a minimum of 24 hours for successful drying. If sun-drying isn’t possible, a dehumidifier is the next best option for removing moisture. Despite the lengthy process, the furniture reaches excellent condition.

Strip and sand the wood

The next step is to strip and sand water damage stains and discoloration. Individuals can apply a varnish stripper solution to affected wood and oxidize the damaged areas. Scraping tools are ideal for stripping the softened wood’s outermost surface from the rest of the furniture. 

After stripping the wood, it’s time to sand. First, sand the wood with a rough grit, then adjust to a finer option to get a smooth surface with a nearly polished outer layer. Brush away any wood dust with a paintbrush or similar tools.

Glue where appropriate

Water can damage the glue on wood furniture as well. Sand between furniture joints to remove affected glue and clear residual dust with a paintbrush.

For pieces requiring reattachment, it’s necessary to use a vice or clamp to keep them together while the glue dries. Epoxy wood glue will dry in 12 to 18 hours, depending on the amount of adhesive necessary and the extent of the water damage.

Stain, paint, and varnish wood furniture

Match damaged furniture with the appropriate waterproof stain color and apply it with a paintbrush. Remove extra staining with a clean rag. If choosing to paint furniture instead, multiple coats of latex enamel-based paint may be necessary.

Some homeowners choose not to stain or paint their wood furniture. In this case, wood varnish is the best solution against water damage. 

Wood varnish will waterproof wooden furniture and keep insects away. Be sure to let each coat completely dry; otherwise, moisture becomes trapped between varnish layers and causes extensive damage.

SERVPRO® of Coppell and West Addison offers years of water damage and fire restoration expertise to North Dallas homes and businesses. When your furniture faces water damage, they implement the perfect commercial cleaning solutions. They restore the furniture to save you time and money. 

Look no further than SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison in Victoria Park, TX, for high-quality service. Call (972) 233-8400.