Can You Keep Water-Damaged Carpet?

5/12/2022 (Permalink)

Carpet is porous and may pose a challenge in the event of water damage. If this flooring material has been exposed to water from a pipe break, leak, or flood, you may be wondering whether it should be restored or replaced. Here are three considerations to help you make the right decision.

1. Which Type of Water Caused the Damage

Category One water is clean and treated. This is the type of water released in the event of a supply pipe break. Carpeting soaked with clean water may be able to be restored. Take action as soon as you notice the leak to reduce the amount of water to which flooring is exposed and the amount of time it remains saturated. Carpeting exposed to Category Two water, which may contain chemicals and microbes, or Category Three black water containing solid waste should be replaced.

2. How Long Was the Carpeting Exposed to Water?

Mold can start to develop within 24 to 72 hours of exposure to water. Fungi thrive in damp conditions such as those created by carpeting. Even if mold does not develop on the surface, moisture can permeate to the subfloor where conditions are ideal for mold spores to thrive. Carpeting exposed to water for a prolonged period of time poses a mold risk and should be torn up.

3. Which Method Is Most Cost-Effective?

If carpeting will require extensive cleaning, you should determine whether it is less expensive to attempt to restore or replace the flooring. Also consider whether keeping carpeting exposed to water may increase the possibility of mold, which will require mitigation.

Certified water damage restoration experts can recommend the best approach for dealing with wet carpet in your home. These companies have equipment that can make cleaning and drying water damage from a pipe break, flood, or leak easier and faster.