Wood paneling has been a popular interior design choice for decades. Timber walls are not only cozy and inviting, but they’re also durable and great for acoustics. However, disasters happen. And when they do, they can destroy your prized wood paneling.
If your wood paneling is warping due to a flood, there are a few steps you can take to make your wood look as good as new again.
How to Repair Water-Damaged Wood Paneling
We always recommend homeowners call us rather than try to DIY a repair. But if you’re experienced in wood paneling repairs, here are the tools you’ll need:
- Pliers
- Hammer
- Chisel
- Pry bar
- Flathead screwdriver
- Drywall putty
- Heat gun
- Finish nails
- Plastic or canvas cloth
Once you check these tools off your list, you’re ready to get started. Remember, the first step is to dry the area to prevent moisture from getting any worse. Moisture is a breeding ground for mold, especially inside small crevices within your wood. If you try to remove the mold yourself, there’s a chance it’ll grow back.
Contact Same Day Restoration for mold removal and remediation to prevent the spread of mold growth.
Wood Paneling Repair
If the water damage only occurred at the surface of your wood paneling, all you need to do is sand the wood. However, you’ll need to consider replacing the wood entirely if the water has seeped into the paneling.
Think of wood paneling replacement as your opportunity to do a little remodeling around the house. Giving your home a refresh is always a good idea.
How to Fix Bubbled Wood Paneling
Bubbled wood paneling is unsightly, to say the least. If part of your wood paneling has bubbled, you can take your hammer, finish nails, and wood adhesive to nail the wood back into place. Lay down your plastic or canvas cloth to keep any putty or adhesive from falling on your floor.
Step 1:
Start by using your putty knife to lift the panel. Then, press it back down to remove the nails.
Step 2:
Next, apply the wood adhesive to the studs, drywall, or furring strips. Let the adhesive sit for a minute before pushing the wood back into place against the adhesive or putty.
Step 3:
Now nail the panel back into position. You can use a touch-up stick to minimize the appearance of any scratches. Use soapy water to wipe away any excess adhesive.
How to Remove Wood Paneling From Walls
If your wood paneling is completely saturated and beyond repair, you need to remove it. You can remove wood paneling with a pry bar and hammer.
Get started by prying away the first panel with your pry bar. Be careful not to damage the drywall when doing this. As you pry away the wood panels, pull out the nails with your pliers. Continue doing this until every water-damaged wood panel is removed.
How to Fix Water-Damaged Wood Floors
Like wood paneling, wood floors are beautiful statement-makers. But just like wood paneling, your wood floors can fall prey to water damage. It doesn’t take much for water to damage wood flooring due to its hygroscopic nature. Too much water can lead to buckling, cupping, warping, and even rot.
It’s important to remove all traces of moisture from your wood floors. Otherwise, mold will start to grow within just 24 to 48 hours. Mold can cause a myriad of health issues.
Repair Your Wood Panels With Same Day Restoration
Not up for the DIY challenge? We don’t blame you. After all, fixing and replacing wood paneling can be a pain, especially if you don’t know what you’re doing. Save yourself time and money by calling the professionals at Same Day Restoration.
We’re specially trained to handle all types of wood-related water damage, including wood paneling and floors. Get 24-hour damage restoration services in San Diego and Orange County. Feel free to schedule your appointment with a technician today.
