Carpet Drying And Water Damage

Carpets are common accoutrements in most homes today. They come in all sorts of colors and patterns. They add beauty and color to a home, as well as a feeling of comfort. However, they are extremely prone to water damage and as such can be a source of headaches when accidents do occur. Wet or flooded carpets require major undertakings and as such a prompt response is crucial. It is important to begin the carpet drying process as soon as possible.

Carpet drying is the process of restoring a wet carpet to its previous dry state. When carpets get wet, water seeps through the carpet padding and into the floor, causing even further damage (warping, cracking). Mold and mildew growth can also occur.  Mold is dangerous. It grows quickly and spreads rapidly. It can prove very difficult to deal with if given time to grow.

The carpet drying process aims to ensure that none of the above mentioned effects get to occur. A rapid response is necessary.  The carpet drying process takes a number of steps to achieve best results. These are

1.         Assess the damage

Consider the cause of the wet carpet, assess the carpet and its surrounding area to get a feel of what you are dealing with. Get the carpet out of the way of other items and away from the water damaged area. Also ensure it is placed where there is minimal foot traffic.

2.         Vacuum the affected areas

Use shop-vacs and or gas powered pumps and vacuum cleaners to remove the water from the carpet. This will make the carpet less heavy and thus easier to lift. The choice of vacuuming equipment depends on the depth and severity of the spill.

3.         Use other drying equipment

Apart from the vacuum cleaners used in the stage before, you can also use electric fans and dehumidifiers. These suck out the moisture and allow the water to evaporate. Carpet drying equipment can also be sought from the local appliance store.

4.         Drying the carpet

At this point the carpet is still wet and is now taken outside to dry. Lay it somewhere to dry and 

air. A spot with good air circulation is important to allow all the remaining water to dry up. Fans and blowers may also be used. Lay the carpet flat so that it may retain its’ shape and make re-installation easier.

5.         Clean and disinfect the affected area

Carpet drying process also focuses on the area on which the carpet may have caused damage. Repair the flooring if warping or cracking has occurred. If the damage cannot be repaired, replacement is the next best thing. The flooring should be dried, treated, cleaned and disinfected. Make sure it is well dried before putting the carpet back on.

The carpet padding should be removed and replaced.

6.         Be safe

Carpet drying may involve getting rid of mold and mildew from the carpet and as such you should always be safe. Some types of mold are toxic and can pose a health risk. Germs and bacteria are also common in wet carpets. Wear hand gloves and face masks if necessary.

Carpet drying professionals can also be contacted to help deal with the problem.