Water damage to flooring can have a devastating effect on your home. The damage caused by a burst water pipe, a flood of persistent leaks, or a burst water pipe can be costly if not repaired immediately. Carpets, wood, and tiles all require specific restoration methods to bring them back to their original condition. We will discuss how to restore a water-damaged carpet and when to contact a professional water damage restoration company.
Carpets Damaged By Water: How To Restore Them?
Carpets are especially susceptible to water damage. If your carpet is wet and moisturized for more than 24 to 48 hours, mold may grow. In some instances, you might need to replace it. Here are steps to restore a carpet that has been damaged by water:
- Standing Water
Use a vacuum cleaner or pump to remove any standing water. If the water can be removed quickly, the carpet will likely survive.
- You Should Dry Your Carpet Completely
Once the water is removed, the carpet needs to be completely dried. You can increase airflow with fans, humidifiers or by opening windows. To speed up the drying process, lift the carpeting and padding. Make sure that you dry each layer thoroughly. Don’t place any furniture on the carpet until it’s completely dry.
- Clean And Disinfect
Depending upon the source, you may want to disinfect and wash the carpet. A professional water restoration company can use the right cleaning products to kill mold or bacteria.
- Replace Padding If Necessary
In many cases, carpet padding absorbs moisture and becomes damaged beyond repair. In such cases, the padding must be replaced to prevent mold growth and maintain structural strength.
- Mold Inspection
Consult an expert water damage restoration service immediately if you notice signs of a mold infestation, such as discoloration or a musty odor. Mold can quickly spread and cause serious health problems if not treated properly.
Restoring Water Damaged Flooring
Wood flooring is very susceptible to water damage. This is especially true if exposed to the water for an extensive period. Water can cause rot or warping of wood depending on the extent of the damage. Here’s how you can restore water-damaged wooden flooring:
- Remove Surface Water
Removing any standing liquid with a towel or a wet vacuum is essential. The longer water sits on wood flooring, the more likely it is to cause swelling or warping.
- Drying The Floor
Dry the floor using fans and dehumidifiers. Heat will cause the floor to dry faster and can crack the wood. In case of serious water damage, removing baseboards or floor sections may be necessary. This will allow you to see moisture trapped under them.
- Refinishing With Sand
If your wood has swollen or slightly warped, you can salvage it by sanding down the surface and refinishing it. Light sanding can restore the wood to its smooth original state, and a new coat of finish protects it from further damage.
- Replace Damaged Sections
In extreme cases of water damage, wood planks might be beyond repair. If certain sections are buckling, the flooring will need to be replaced. A professional can assess any damage to the flooring and replace each plank while maintaining its overall look.
- Treat For Mold
Mold can also grow beneath wood flooring if it remains wet for an extended period of time. If you find mold, contact a water damage repair company to avoid further spreading of the disease and to protect your health.
When To Contact A Professional Water Damage Restoration Company
Even though DIY methods can resolve some cases, serious water damage requires professional expertise. When water has penetrated deeply into your flooring and caused extensive damage or led to mold growth, you should call a company specializing in water damage restoration. Professionals have all the tools and know-how necessary to restore damaged floors, assuring long-term protection and preventing further damage.
Conclusion
It can be a nightmare to deal with water damage, but if you take the right steps, your carpets or tiled floors will return to their former glory. You will minimize the damage when you act fast and seek professional assistance. This will keep your family safe and healthy. Contact a water restoration company immediately if your floors suffer significant water damage.