Floods are a terrible natural occurrence. From city damage to home disasters, a flood is always bad news. So, misfortune has already occurred, what’s to be done about it?
In addition to everything else, water damage can leave your carpet damp, soiled, and less than fresh. This is often true whether it results from a flood, a storm, a busted pipe, or an overflowing washing machine, it’s all the same result.
In addition, this can create mould, bad smells, and even damage the flooring beneath if left ignored.
Don’t panic, though! Knowing exactly what to do will help you save your carpet and any extra damage. Let’s discuss what to do should your carpet show water damage following a disaster.
Assess the Damage
You have to first determine the degree of the harm. Not all types of water damage are on the same level, and the following steps all depend on how bad the current situation is.
An issue coming from clean sources is usually the least dangerous kind and the easiest to deal with. This includes busted pipes or rainwater.
On the other hand, grey water is slightly more alarming. It comes from equipment such as dishwashers or washing machines. It usually includes pollutants which have to be properly washed up.
Black water is the most dangerous type as it comes from sewage or floodwaters derived from rivers and oceans. It always contains dangerous bacteria and toxins and needs utmost sterilisation
Knowing the water source here is key as it can help you identify the cleaning methods and tools. Otherwise, you may house bacteria or germs in your home unknowingly.
Prioritise Safety First
Make sure the flooded region is safe before starting your cleaning ritual. If the flooding is severe, cut off the power to avoid any electric shock. Wear gloves, masks, and boots with contaminated water to avoid catching any diseases.
After you have guaranteed your safety, you should move quickly.
Remove the Water Immediately
Dealing with carpet water damage requires quick action.
The rate of mould and bacterial development increases the longer the water remains there.
There are techniques to get rid of it. First, use a wet & dry vacuum. It can pull out plenty of water from your carpet and is used to manage spills.
For smaller areas, use towels and mops to absorb as much water as you can. Press the towels tightly into the carpet and replace them as soon as they get soaked.
If the water is too much to remove by yourself, consider a professional water extraction service. Such companies have strong tools for fast and effective water removal for severe flooding.
Dry the Carpet Thoroughly
Once the water is gone, you need to dry your carpet completely. Mould, mildew, and germs abound in damp carpets which can seriously compromise health.
Add fans throughout the area to boost air circulation and hasten the drying process. Dehumidifiers also help by eliminating extra moisture from the air.
In addition, open windows and doors to let fresh air flow. This not only dries the carpet but also lowers the possibility of musty smells arising.
Gently raise the carpet’s edges to let air flow beneath if doable. Underlying little blocks or books beneath the carpet will help raise it above the ground and encourage quicker drying.
Clean and Disinfect
This step is crucial to get rid of any traces of germs, grime, or pollutants.
Use a proper carpet cleaning solution for your type of carpet. Mix a mild detergent with water for a homemade solution. Test it first on a small area to ensure no discolouration takes place.
Use a commercial cleaner or vinegar to disinfect. Mix equal amounts of the disinfectant with water and gently spritz the carpet.
Put all your focus on stained or extremely filthy areas using a soft brush or cloth. Watch out not to overwet the carpet during this step.
Address the Padding and Subfloor
This part is usually difficult to dry. In many cases if it has been too soaked for a long period of time, it’ll need to be replaced.
Lift the carpet to check the padding underneath. If it is moist, remove and dispose of it. If you leave damp padding, it could cause mould to develop that will compromise your whole carpet.
Afterwards, dry and disinfect the subfloor if damp before adding fresh padding. Use fans to dry it completely and clean it with a disinfectant solution to kill any bacteria.
Deodorise to Remove Unpleasant Odours
Sometimes carpets smell musty even after they have been cleaned and dried. Deodorising your carpet will help improve indoor air and eradicate any residual smells.
Baking soda is often used to neutralise odours. Sprinkle some and let it sit for several hours or overnight then hoover it.
You can also use a commercial carpet deodoriser. They eradicate smells and leave your carpet smelling fresh. For the best effects, closely follow the product instructions.
Prevent Future Water Damage
To avoid these issues again, there are some steps you can follow.
First, inspect appliances, pipelines, and fixtures for leaks or wear on a regular basis. You should also use waterproof mats to catch any spills or leaks before they reach your carpet in places prone to moisture, such as basements, entryways, or close to water-based appliances.
If your house is in a flood-prone area, think about putting in a sump pump to control water levels and stop floods.
When to Call the Professionals
Although this can be a do-it-yourself project with small water damage, serious cases usually call for expert assistance.
You should contact professionals if you are dealing with black water or significant flooding. Carpet cleaning companies have the tools and knowledge required to completely restore your carpet to its earlier status.
Conclusion
When dealing with water damage, the secret is to act quickly. Whether you’re calling in experts or doing the work yourself, every effort you make will help preserve your carpets and maintain a fresh and clean home.
Don’t throw away that flooded carpet. Wear your gloves, put on your masks, and start cleaning!