Should Carpet be Replaced After Water Damage?

9/13/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage can happen to just about anyone

Act Quickly and Safely to Stop the Flow

First and foremost, safely stop the flow of water as soon as possible. Take extra caution before entering an area where electrical appliances, or other electrical equipment is present. If feasible, and to minimize risk, shut off the electric power before you enter a flooded room.

Next, move with purpose, but be aware that a wet floor can be very slippery—especially surfaces like tile. That last thing you need is to injure yourself while dealing with a flood situation. Carefully make your way to the source of the water and stop the flow. Once the flow of water has been stopped, take a quick assessment of the area. It’s important to deal with any standing water as soon as possible. The longer water sits in an area, the more extensive the damage.

Get towels, buckets, and/or a mop to remove as much standing water as possible. Also, try to minimize the flow of water from one area to another, use towels and blankets—while you continue to remove as much water as possible.

Identifying the Source

Determining the source of a flood can range from relatively easy to very difficult—burst pipe, clogged drain, leaky roof flashing. If you’re unable to pinpoint the source, call in an expert with experience in damage assessment. They can quickly identify the source, assess the damage, and help you get your home restored.

Once the standing water has been removed it’s time to assess the damage. Tile floors are the most forgiving when it comes to flooding, wood and carpet, not so much. But what about carpet?

Assessing Carpet Damage

When dealing with carpet that has been exposed to a flood there are a few things to consider before making a final decision on whether to keep or discard it. One of the biggest factors is the age of the carpet. Indoor/outdoor carpet, which is designed to withstand the elements will hold up pretty well to water. Plush, or deep shag carpet on the other hand is very difficult for the average homeowner to dry and may require SERVPRO of Streamwood, Bartlet, West Chicago and Warrenville to sufficiently dry the carpet. Once the carpet is completely dry the damage can be properly assessed. Does the carpet have an odor? Is it discolored or permanently stained? If not, it may be worth saving.

Don’t Forget to Check the Sub-Floor

Before making a final decision the padding and subfloor—what’s under the carpet—will have to be evaluated. Any water damage must be repaired, not just covered up. If the damage is not properly addressed mold could develop and create a serious health threat. Even if the sub-floor appears intact, it’s always a good idea to have SERVPRO check for structural damage. If no permanent damage is detected, and the carpet and padding are dried completely, leaving the carpet in place is an option.