In this article, we will discuss a step-by-step process to repair and restore water damaged particle board furniture. Many times, when you come across used furniture for sale, it may be in poor condition. This tutorial will guide you on how to fix swollen wood and repair particle board, resulting in a piece of furniture that looks brand new.

Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to note that you should always wear a mask when working with particle board or MDF furniture. These materials contain chemicals that can be toxic to your lungs.

Step 1: Assess the Damage

You may come across furniture with lumps and bumps caused by water damage. In this example, the dresser has swollen particle board throughout its surface. Despite its poor condition, it is salvageable.

Step 2: Fix Broken Areas

Start by fixing any broken areas, such as split drawers or damaged edges. Use wood glue to bond the pieces together and then sand them down using an electric sander or a hand sander. After sanding, fill in any remaining rough areas with wood filler.

Step 3: Sand the Swollen Areas

To remove the swollen parts caused by water damage, use a coarse sandpaper with 80 grit. Sand the affected areas until they are leveled with the rest of the surface. Then switch to a finer sandpaper with 60 grit and continue sanding until the elevated areas blend smoothly with the finish.

Step 4: Scuff Sand the Formica Top

If the furniture has a Formica top, scuff sand it to prepare it for painting. Scuff sanding involves roughening the surface to ensure better paint adhesion. Use 220 grit sandpaper to create a smooth and paint-ready surface.

Step 5: Prepare for Priming

Inspect the surface for any remaining rough or nicked areas. Sand those spots by hand until they blend seamlessly with the rest of the furniture. If necessary, use wood putty to fill in any small imperfections. Once the surface is smooth, apply two coats of water-based primer. Water-based primer is suitable for particle board furniture that has not been stained.

Step 6: Sand the Primer

After the primer has thoroughly dried, lightly sand it with 220 grit sandpaper. This step removes any dust particles or burrs that may have settled on the surface during drying. Be careful not to sand too forcefully, as you don’t want to remove the primer itself.

Step 7: Apply Chalk Paint

Using a brush, roller, or spray method, apply chalk paint in two to three coats. Make sure each coat is completely dry before moving on to the next. After the final coat, sand the surface again lightly to achieve a smooth finish.

Step 8: Protect with Topcoat

To ensure durability, apply a topcoat of polyurethane satin finish. A satin finish provides a tough and protective layer for the furniture’s surface. Apply the topcoat according to the manufacturer’s instructions, using a foam brush, regular brush, or even a roller.

By following these eight simple steps, you can beautifully restore and transform water damaged particle board furniture. The process involves repairing broken areas, sanding down the swollen wood, priming, painting with chalk paint, and applying a protective topcoat.

Remember, when refinishing furniture, it’s essential to take safety precautions by wearing a mask and working in a well-ventilated area. The chemicals used in the creation of particle board and MDF can be harmful when inhaled.

Thank you for reading this article on how to repair and restore water damaged particle board furniture. If you found this information helpful, please give it a thumbs up and consider subscribing to our channel, Furniture Flipping For Profit. We release new videos regularly, showcasing various furniture restoration projects. Stay tuned for more tips and tricks on flipping used furniture for profit!