Restoring Books and Papers After Water or Smoke Damage

The first hours matter most. Wet paper fibers swell and weaken, and mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours. If you live in Kirkland, the mild marine climate with wet winters and dry summers means indoor humidity can stay high, so speed is key.

Move wet books and papers to a dry, well-ventilated area. Lay flat on clean towels or plastic sheeting. Separate pages with wax paper or paper towels to stop them from sticking. For valuable or irreplaceable items, consider placing them in a freezer until you can deal with them properly.

• Handle wet paper gently to avoid tearing
• Remove standing water with a clean sponge or cloth
• Use fans or dehumidifiers to increase air movement
• Do not use heat to dry, it can warp and damage
• Freeze items if you cannot dry them within 48 hours
• Keep a record of what is damaged for your own notes

Freezing stops mold growth and gives you time to plan. Wrap each book or stack of papers in plastic wrap or place in a sealed bag to prevent ice crystals from forming. A chest freezer works well.

When you are ready, thaw items slowly in a refrigerator or at room temperature. This method is not for all paper, but it can save important documents. For large collections, a professional may use vacuum freeze-drying, which is a specialized process.

Some damage is beyond home methods. If pages are stuck together, mold has set in, or you have a large collection of valuable books, a professional may be needed. They have tools like freeze-drying chambers and specialized cleaning solutions.

A local water damage professional can assess the situation and advise on what is worth saving. They can also address the source of the water or smoke, such as a roof leak or fire, to prevent future damage. Check with your insurance company about coverage; policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.