At some point, if you own a home this is going to happen. Clean, clear water such as rain or tap water can be saved depending upon the amount of time its been wet. The quality and type of the carpet also is a factor. If the carpet has been soaked with ground or sewage water, it will likely not be salvageable. The best way to bring your carpet back to life is to get it sanitized and dried as soon as possible. If the area is a small section there are measures you can take on your own. However, if a large section, a room or multiple rooms are damaged, the most cost effective move is to call in professionals.
[ Photo Credits: Presley Perswain‘s Flickr ]
1) Stop the Source of the Flooding
A simple matter of a sink or tub overflowing is the easiest situation in which to stop the flow. If the water damage is due to a broken pipe or from sewage or ground water, it is important to stop the flooding first before attempting to clean and repair the carpet. In some cases, you may need to call a plumber or a contractor.
2) Call Your Insurance Company
Be precise in explaining the extent of the damage. Know the cause of the water damage and close measurement of the area that’s damaged. Clarify what procedures they want you to take and follow them. Most of all, do not go out and purchase new carpet or hire professionals until you’re clear on the exact procedures of your insurance company.
3) Treating Small Effected Areas
After consulting your insurance company, if you need to disinfect your carpet, removed all of the furniture in the room. Make a solution of 1 gallon of water to 2 tablespoons of bleach. With a box cutter, gently cut around the water damaged area and remove the padding. Scrub the contaminated piece of the carpet.
4) The Drying Process
It’s imperative to get the carpet dry as soon as possible. Aim as many fans as you can at the wet area. If possible, turn up the heat in an effort to boost drying time. Avoid walking on it until it’s completely dry. This can take as long as a day and a half to three days. If you have a dehumidifier, place it in the room as well. However, mold quite possibly could start setting in after twelve hours. If there isn’t a noticeable difference in dampness after about twelve hours, you may need to consider replacing the carpet.
The best way to bring your carpet back to life after flooding is to get it sanitized and dried quickly. Because of the risks of bacteria and mold setting in quickly, the safest decision is to call a professional. Water damage can become a serious health hazard to you, your loved ones and neighbors if not treated in a timely and thorough manner. The aforementioned tips are suitable for small, minor areas. In most cases, it really is safer and more cost effective to call in professional help.
360 Clean can stop the spread of dangerous mold spores, bacteria and fungi that has the potential of contaminating quickly. We identify the extent of damage with our moisture meter and implement extrication measures immediately. With the use of high tech extrication equipment we remove the water quickly. Our professional fans and dehumidifiers further dry moisture from the floors, walls and the air. Our professional steam cleaning process will sanitize and deodorize the carpet according to Australian standards. If needed, 360 Clean will complete and submit a report to your insurance.
The most important thing to remember is that water damage can quickly become a health hazard so you need to act quickly. If you’re unsure whether your carpet needs professional care, call our professionals at 1300 360 559. We’re here to restore your damaged carpet back to life in the most cost effective, stress-free way possible.
