How do I Dry Between Layers of Plywood or OSB?
Plywood and OSB are commonly used as subfloors in many homes. They come in varying thicknesses and are not treated to withstand the elements, particularly water. If they get wet, the key to getting them dry is to make sure the layers between the plywood or OSB are free of water. Leaks from plumbing or rain can cause them to get wet between the layers, and this leads to mold and mildew. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Push down on the plywood to see if it feels spongy. If the plywood is extremely spongy and can easily be bent, it will not be able to dry completely. Inspect it to see how much water is between the two layers and if it has started to soak through into the center of the plywood and toward the surface.
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Wipe up any excess glue that is around the perimeter or in the gaps of the plywood. Plywood is usually glued together when there is more than one layer. Glue leaks out from between the plywood when it is wet. Clean it thoroughly with a clean rag and peel off anything with a utility knife that has dried up.
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Set up fans on the sides of the plywood and line them up close enough so the fans can blow air between the layers of plywood.
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Run the fans for a few days and check the moisture levels. Leave the fans on for at least two weeks, depending on how much moisture is in between the layers. Check back periodically until everything has completely dried.
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Tips & Warnings
The process of drying between the layers of plywood could take up to a few weeks or even a month before the water is completely gone. Depending on the location in the house and the number of fans blowing on the plywood, drying time may vary slightly.
References
- Photo Credit plywood texture image by jimcox40 from Fotolia.com
