Dry the Affected Areas To further speed up the drying process, set up an electric heater. The heat will help evaporate the moisture faster. If the water-damaged wood is in an enclosed space, consider using a dehumidifier.
1. Apply a coat of polyurethane, varnish, or lacquer to protect the wood from penetrating humidity and moisture that can seep into your deck and other outdoor wood furnishings. 2. Finish and waterproof wood with a professional-grade wood stain and sealer combo and repaint when necessary.
Removing the Moisture
There are two ways to dry green wood (that is, wood that still needs to be dried): through air drying and kiln drying. When properly executed, drying green wood with a kiln, or just with the air, can produce straight cuts that are not warped at all, which is ideal for construction or woodworking.
Once in a while the moisture will be so close to the top of the finish and so shallow that you can speed the evaporation process by carefully blowing warm air over it. But no heat guns or propane torches! Just use a hair dryer set on low heat and keep it four to six inches from the wood.
After thoroughly towel drying the floor, add absorbent material like sawdust, baking soda, or kitty litter. Spread a generous amount of the material over the affected area and let it sit overnight. The absorbent material helps to draw out any remaining moisture from the wood and makes it easier to dry.
Using a Dehumidifier: If your wood is stored indoors or in a garage, a dehumidifier can speed up the drying process. By reducing the humidity in the air, you can help your wood lose moisture effectively. Just make sure to stack the wood in a way that allows air circulation.
The best way to prevent wood from getting wet is by ensuring it is properly sealed with a high-quality water-resistant finish. Additionally, store wood in a dry environment, away from direct exposure to moisture, and use proper drainage systems in areas with high humidity.
To treat wood damaged by moisture, start by drying the wood thoroughly using fans or a dehumidifier. Remove any rotted or severely damaged sections and treat the remaining wood with a fungicide to prevent mold growth. Sand the surface to remove any stains and apply a wood hardener if needed.
Use dehumidifiers and air conditioners, especially in hot, humid climates, to reduce moisture in the air, but be sure that the appliances themselves don't become sources of biological pollutants. Raise the temperature of cold surfaces where moisture condenses. Use insulation or storm windows.
The salt draws out moisture from the wood, creating a less hospitable environment for fungi and insects that can cause decay. However, it can also cause the wood to dry out and become brittle over time.
Kiln Drying. The kiln process involves the drying of wood in a chamber where air circulation, relative humidity and temperature can be controlled so that the moisture content of wood can be reduced to a target point without having any drying defects.
Mix 3 parts hemp oil to 1 part distilled white vinegar. The oil must be an oil that is made for furniture refinishing, so it will not go rancid. If you pull vegetable oil from your kitchen cabinet, you will likely have that problem. The oil hydrates the wood while the vinegar cleans it.
Apply a high-quality wood preservative to all exposed surfaces, including the inside walls. Install proper ventilation to allow for air circulation and prevent condensation. Select a waterproof roof covering and make sure it is securely installed.
You can easily waterproof wood with synthetic sealants, natural oils, or a stain/sealer. Whichever method you choose, always work in a well-ventilated area or wear a NIOSH-approved respirator.
Therefore, you should never leave your firewood in an unorganized pile on the ground. Instead, we recommend putting your stack on an elevated cement platform. You can also elevate it on pallets, 2”x4” boards or a vapor barrier—anything that keeps the moisture away from the wood will do.
Baking Soda: Baking soda is cheap and easy to find. It's great for small areas and helps neutralize odors while absorbing moisture. Use it in closets or cabinets.
Open windows and doors to help speed up the drying process. Use fans to move air around the damp walls. Also use dehumidifiers, which can help remove moisture from the air and walls. Professionals use tools like moisture meters, infrared imaging devices, dehumidifiers and heavy-duty fans.
Rock Salt. The most popular DIY dehumidifier is the one that works the best—rock salt. Rock salt naturally absorbs moisture out of the air, making it a great choice to use as a dehumidifier.
Dry the Affected Areas
The heat will help evaporate the moisture faster. If the water-damaged wood is in an enclosed space, consider using a dehumidifier. For example, if your wooden cabinet has sustained water damage, set the dehumidifier up in front of the open cabinet door and allow it to run.
Liberally sprinkle baking soda inside the furniture to help absorb the moisture from the wood. 2. Use a fan to blow air over the piece, or place furniture in a bathroom with a dehumidifier.
A wood oil will provide the necessary means to resist water intake, whilst aiding the natural character of the wood. A quality varnish can also be used to grant a tough, waterproof seal. Without such protection, moisture will absorb into the cells of the wood, causing them to swell and expand.
Efficient drying methods such as air drying and employing dehumidifiers are crucial. Air drying allows natural evaporation, while dehumidifiers expedite the process, preventing further damage caused by prolonged moisture. Thorough drying is vital to prevent warping, mold growth, and structural compromise.
Mineral Oil
It's also non-flammable and won't stain your furniture. Mix equal amounts of mineral oil and vegetable oil. Start sparingly. To do so, rub the mixture onto the surface of your furniture using a rag.
Wood Releases and Gains Moisture
With changing temperature and relative humidity, wood is constantly releasing or gaining moisture. This change occurs slowly.