To Restore or Replace Carpet after a Water Damage

10/21/2019 (Permalink)

Carpet and trim removal to allow air movers to dry sub-floor and wall

Water damage to any carpeted area must be dealt with immediately.  If flooded carpet hasn’t been properly dried after 24 to 48 hours, the remaining moisture creates the ideal environment for mold and harmful bacteria to grow. Mold-contaminated carpet is a health hazard. A particularly dangerous mold, Stachybotrys, is associated with wet carpet and can cause severe illness.

If water damage is from a clean water source and it was identified within 48 hours, then cleaning the carpet yourself is an option. If water damage is from a gray or black water source, call a professional. Recommendations for cleaning or replacing flood-damaged carpets and rugs will depend on the contamination level of the water and the length of time the carpet or rugs were saturated.

Water from toilets or other contaminated sources ruin your carpet for good. Carpet saturated with water considered to be “black,” such as groundwater or sewage, is definitely not salvageable and should be replaced at once.  If the sub-floor is particleboard, it will swell and disintegrate when it gets wet and will need to be replaced as well.

Getting to the water damage as quickly as possible will reduce the chances of mold developing and a greater chance of carpet being salvaged.  Listed below are tips to follow when carpet has been damage by a clean water source:

1. Remove water as quickly as possible
2. Use fans to speed up carpet drying process 
3. Use a dehumidifier to dry out the room
4. Sanitize walls and baseboards
5. Check furniture

Carpeting can and should be saved after water damage whenever possible.  Extreme cases of black water flooding, proper restoration and sanitation should be done by professionals.  Your local SERVPRO can determine the level of contamination and recommendations on cleaning or replacing damaged carpet.  Dealing with the water damage immediately will determine if carpet and sub-flooring can be salvaged. Our professionals are available 24 hours 7 days a week to handle your emergency water damage.  We service upholstery cleaning as well when your furniture and contents have been involved in water damage. Call today to get an estimate or schedule your service.