How to Straighten Warped Wood – Basic Hacks & Tips

Warped wood is often a result of moisture and heat. If you are into wood furniture, you may have to experience when using this several times. Others simply accept what they have, while others are interested in learning the process of how to straighten warped wood. Warped wood is not hopeless, after all.

The good news is that, if you belong to the latter, you can perform this project alone without a hassle. However, if you want to achieve the best results, you need to learn some basic hacks and tips. This article will provide you that information. All you need to do is to follow the instructions and no doubt you will find yourself equipped for your next project.

What You Need

• Iron
• Ironing board
• Water
• Big towel

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare Towels and Iron

Image source

The first step in this project is to moisten your towels, placing your wood piece on top of the board. Make sure to wrap your wood using a damp towel. It should just be damp, not dripping wet, before starting to iron. If the size of your towel is not big enough, an option is to use two or three towels. The fabric of the towel should be capable of withstanding the heat of the ironing. 

Aside from using an iron board, you may also work on any sturdy surface as an alternative. Choose one that will do well for handling the warped wood. Turn the iron to its maximum heat settings, and apply the steam mode. Note that it is not possible to straighten warped wood using a dry iron. 

As the iron continues to heat after three to five minutes, but the warped wood, with the warp facing upwards. This will allow you to apply pressure, together with the heat that comes from the iron, as well as the moisture that comes from the damp towels. The combination of these sources will help straighten the warp. 

Step 2 – Press Wood with Iron

Image source

Now, you need to press your wood using a hot iron that is set to steam mode. Apply even pressure on the surface in its entirety. Do so as carefully as possible. Avoid making the area with the warp straight by putting too much pressure. 

Rather, apply controlled and even pressure. This can be done by placing the iron in a certain area for around five to ten seconds. Then, slide it to the next area. After applying heat on the entire wood piece, unwrap the towel, checking if you have accomplished your goal. The desired output may not be achieved on the first try, and you may have to do the same process two to three more times. 

After completing the process, remove the extra moisture coming from the wood. A dry, clean towel will do the trick. In certain cases, if the warp is only on a specific part of the wood, you may only need to apply heat only on the warped area. 

Step 3 – Tips

Image source

The method of straightening warped wood will still depend on the specific type of wood that you need to straighten. This means that you may have to use other means to unwarp it. This is because in certain cases, applying more pressure is needed to fix warped wood. Note that it is often best, to begin with, the ironing method mentioned in this guide before trying other possible solutions. If the ironing method will not work, another effective way that you can try is placing it in a wood clamp. Note, however, that it may take a complete week before you can see the final output.

Most of the time, moisture and heat are the causes of warped wood. It is not the end game, though. With patience, these factors can be used favorably. Remember, though that appropriate storage of wood is very important. If you store wood correctly, you may not have to worry about unwarping wood. 

This also means the need to avoid exposing wood to too much heat and moisture, which is usually the setting in most basements. After following the ironing process, most of those who have tried have been successful. With patience and the willingness to accomplish this task, you are on your way to straightening warped wood. 

Conclusion

Learning how to straighten warped wood can take you to places in your woodworking career. Whether you are a simple DIYer or a professional, knowing the hacks & tips will not just allow you to finish projects, but will also teach you new things. If you find this article interesting, feel free to share it. You can also share your experience in straightening warped wood! Leave them in the comments section below!