subject: Do You Have Water Damage? [print this page] People who have had water damage in their home will try to salvage items that have been affected by leaking water or by flood, or some other water condition. If a carpet has been affected by water, it might be able to be salvaged. First, the type of water that has damaged the carpet makes a difference.
If the water is from a sanitary source, from a leaking pipe for instance, then it might be worth trying to save. However, if the water is from an unsanitary source such as a toilet, then the carpet should be discarded as soon as possible. The carpet will be full of harmful bacteria.
If a carpet is to be salvaged, then it is important to fix the leak or whatever is the source of the unwanted water. It is best to have a professional plumber come in and fix the leak and look for other potential problems. Now the carpet. If the carpet is completely soaked, then there is little chance of saving it.
But if there are series of wet spots, it might be salvaged. Cut around the wet areas with a sharp knife. Then lift the area and pull out the wet pad and replace it.
Place the carpet up on a brick or box to keep it exposed to air. Next, set up fans around the room and allow them to run for thirty six hours. Do not turn them off during this time.
At the end of the twenty four hours, check the carpets to see if they are still wet. If so, then it is time to replace the carpet. The truth is that if they are not dry in this time, then they will not adequately dry.
The wet carpet will spread bacteria which could lead to mold growth. Mold is a hazardous substance and once it starts to grow, it is tough to stop. There are companies that remove mold from homes. But it is best to keep it out of the home in the first place.
Basements are also areas where mold can grow if there is a water leak or if the area has been flooded recently. This is why it is important to always check pipes for leaks and if there is any flooding, such as after a heavy rain, it is prudent to check the basement for any leaking. One way to help prevent flooding in the basement is to install a rain gutter system.
The gutters will keep water from running off the roof and down into the house foundation where it can build up and seep into the basement. It is much easier to prevent damage from water to the home than it is to deal with the damage that has already taken place. There are many companies that specialize in repairing water damage and in mold removal however, if damage has already occurred.
