How to Dry Wet Plywood

Wet plywood can easily mold, rot, or warp if the situation is not addressed promptly. Often plywood is damaged when left out in an unexpected rainstorm, although a plumbing leak in your home can also damage already installed plywood. Whatever your situation, use these methods to stop as much lasting damage as possible.

Step 1: Make sure any leak or other problem is addressed before you attempt to dry the plywood. If the plywood is mobile and was simply left outside by mistake, bring it to a well ventilated area, such as a garage to dry out.

Step 2: Wipe away as much of the moisture as possible from the wet plywood with a dry cloth. Change rags often to prevent spreading water to dry areas of the plywood.

Step 3: Lift loose plywood and lean it against some sturdy chairs or other items that can support the weight of the wood. Standing up the plywood will allow it to dry more quickly than a stack of plywood on the floor.

Step 4: No matter where the wet plywood is located, turn on a few fans to get the air within the room circulating and aid in the evaporative process. If you live in a particularly dry climate, this may be all you have to do to prevent your wet plywood from experiencing more damage.

Step 5: Turn on a space heater to keep the room warm, which will also aid in the drying process. Keep in mind, however, that wet plywood should be kept away from extremely high temperatures, which er can cause the grain of the wood to raise. Of course, if the plywood will be covered, this may not be a concern.

Step 6: Keep at least the fans going for several days until the plywood is completely dry. For plywood that is actually part of your house, it may take several weeks for the plywood to dry: make sure to keep the air circulating and dry to prevent mold and mildew problems at a later date.