Caring for Wet Valuables After Water Damage

2/18/2020 (Permalink)

Wet carpet on a Chalfont, PA home

If your home in Chalfont, PA has sustained water damage from flooding or perhaps a broken pipe, you will need to replace the flooring and maybe even furniture and drywall. But what about those irreplaceable family heirlooms and other valuables? Water in your home can be devastating, but there are some great tips to help you restore the items you thought were lost.

Tips to Save Valuables

Rinse each object with clear water. Make sure to remove any dirt or other debris using a damp washcloth or soft-bristle brush, being careful not to rub the dirt into your valuable item. Many cloth items can be restored with dry cleaning. Consult with your neighborhood dry cleaner to make sure.
Water in your home increases humidity that can wreak havoc on your valuables. Reduce the humidity using fans and dehumidifiers. Open the windows, if the weather permits, to air-dry each valuable. This will help to prevent mold from growing.
Books and photos can easily tear when wet, so be careful when handling them. Any photos in frames should be loosened carefully at the edges to allow them to dry successfully. Putting books in the fridge or the freezer can help them dry while retaining their shape.
If an item has been broken, it is a good idea to wait until all of the pieces have completely dried before you try to glue them back together. Keep all of the pieces in an open container to allow the air to dry them out faster.
Any metal valuables contaminated with mud or silt should be rinsed carefully with clean water and then dried using a soft cloth.
Wet paintings should be removed from the frame. Always air-dry paintings facing up and keep them out of the sun.

Following a few simple steps can save your family's valuable heirlooms from being damaged by water in your home.