Picture this: You’ve come home after a long day of work and as you walk into your living room, you’re not greeted by the warm and inviting atmosphere you’ve carefully crafted but by a soggy carpet. The source of this unwelcoming surprise could be a leaking roof or even an accidental spill that got out of hand.
No matter the cause, you may end up with costly carpet water damage. You may end up paying from $131 up to $278 to repair, while carpet replacements can cost up to $2,600.
So, here are some things you need to know to save your valuable carpet and avoid long-term damage.
Pinpoint and Stop the Source
Failing to find the source of the problem can lead to various issues, including mold and mildew growth. Your home has intricate lines and fixtures that can leak as time passes by. Make sure you check for leaks on your roof, a broken pipe, hidden seepages, or a malfunctioning appliance.
Determining the type of water in your carpet is also essential when cleaning your carpet. There are three types of water that can flood your home:
- Clear water: from rain or busted pipes (that are not connected to appliances or mixed with contaminants)
- Gray water: contains chemicals or contaminants from washing machines or dishwashers
- Black water: from sewage, toilets, or water sources from natural disasters like a storm
If your carpet is wet from gray or black water, it’s best to scrap it. Your wet carpet could be contaminated and could pose serious health risks for you and your whole family.
If you’re dealing with sudden floods or a natural disaster, be sure to call your local authorities. Follow their guidance for safety and evacuation. Once the danger has passed, look for any issues with your home’s structural integrity, like damaged doors, windows, or roof.
Get to Work as Soon as Possible
Water damage can strike at any time, whether from a burst pipe or spilled glass of water. The longer you allow your carpets to sit in the water, the more irreversible damage it will have.
Within 24 to 48 hours after water exposure, mold and mildew can spread and colonize. So once you discover water on or near your carpets, don’t procrastinate.
Absorb as much water as you can with towels or rags. A wet or dry vacuum is also a great tool for removing any excess moisture. It’s best to slowly remove large quantities of water to avoid going back and forth through the entire affected area.
Encourage Proper Ventilation
Allowing clean air to flow around your home helps dry out moisture and minimizes the risk of mold and mildew. Start by opening your windows on sunny and dry days. This will help circulate fresh air throughout your home.
You can also install exhaust fans in your kitchen and bathroom to remove humid air. Consider using dehumidifiers in rooms that have consistently high humidity levels to ensure a dry environment. If you have any HVAC systems, use them to control the humidity levels of your home efficiently.
Consider Waterproofing
Implementing waterproof solutions can add an extra layer of protection against possible future water damage. Consider installing waterproof flooring alternatives for water-prone rooms, like your bathroom or basement.
The following are water-resistant and can be easier to clean and maintain compared to traditional carpets:
- Ceramic tiles: durable and waterproof
- Luxury Vinyl Plank: replicates the appearance of wood and is resistant to moisture
- Epoxy Flooring: exceptionally resilient and water-resistant
Other than flooring, you can also use waterproofing paint for areas that easily get moist. Be sure to install gutter guards to avoid clogs and water overflows that may seep into the house.
Addressing potential sources of water and using these solutions can safeguard your home and prevent costly replacements or repairs. Prevention is better than a cure, meaning these proactive measures can save you money, time, and stress in the long run.
Improve the Drying Process
Accelerating the drying process of your carpet prevents carpet mold and mildew as well as foul smells. You can use your fans to promote better air circulation. On the other hand, dehumidifiers reduce humidity levels and further prevent mold growth.
Place your fans strategically to ensure the best air circulation and drying. You can also use heaters to help hasten the drying process. Heaters raise the temperature of the room, minimizing evaporation.
Of course, you don’t have to invest in these options. You can always open your windows and doors to promote better air circulation and prevent mold.
Check the Carpet Padding
Did you ever notice the layer underneath your carpet? That’s what we call the carpet pad, which plays a significant role in preventing long-term carpet water damage. High-quality padding can act as a moisture barrier, minimizing the amount of water that seeps through the subfloor.
If you don’t remove the carpet pad, then cleaning and drying will become useless. The spongy design of the carpet pad can become a breeding ground for mildew and will continue to grow over time.
When checking your carpet padding, look for discoloration, a musty odor, and puckering or wrinkling of the carpet. If the pad is wet or damaged, you may need to remove and change it. Doing so will prevent mold growth and ensure that your carpet restores properly and stays comfortable to walk on.
Schedule Maintenance and Inspection
Staying vigilant is a must to prevent potential sources of leaks and help you catch issues early. Have a professional regularly check the condition of your home, especially after heavy storms and rainfall. Ensure that your roof, plumbing, appliances, windows, and doors are in tip-top condition.
The CleanUP Guys: Your Solution to Carpet Water Damage
If you’ve done all that you can to dry out your carpet and still notice water damage in the affected area, then it’s time to call for professional help. Dealing with the aftermath of molds, water, and fire doesn’t have to be stressful.
The CleanUP Guys are at your beck and call with 27/7 availability! Say goodbye to carpet water damage by giving us a call today. Be sure to check out the rest of our services as we also offer mold removal, basement cleaning, and so much more.