Cleaning Carpet After Water Damage

Cleaning Carpet After Water Damage

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Its happened to the best of us; flooding or a burst pipe causing water to come in to our home creating water damage all over that wonderful cream-colored piling. But all is not lost. Just take a deep breath and look at how to clean up after the (water) damage has been done.

1) Determine what kind of water caused the damage If the water is from a toilet or sewage line then youve been tainted by black water. If this happens you should IMMEDIATELY DISCARD your carpet. It will be an expensive process but there are too many bacteria lurking in that type of water that would fester and create many more health problems down the road. However, if the water is from a main water line then you can consider yourself lucky. This can be repaired.

2) Disenfect and lift the water damaged section Even though it may not be black water you dont want to take any chances. Mix about 3 tablespoons of bleach into a gallon of water and get scrubbing on the water damaged areas (make sure you ventilate the room! A clean carpet isnt worth brain damage). Then, using a box cutter or similar tool cut and lift the carpet. You can get rid of that damaged padding; its no good to us now. Be certain to keep the carpet area lifted to allow airflow and facilitate the drying process. Clean up the floor below the damaged carpet to prevent further problems using either a wet/dry vacuum or mop.

3) Let It Dry This is the most important part. Direct as many fans as you can at the damaged areas, (most professionals recommend industrial fans set on high) open windows, get a dehumidifier, whatever it takes. The first 12 hours are the most important part of this process. This is the time frame in which mold can grow in your carpet, creating lots of nasty things you dont want to be breathing. During this time try to keep any traffic out of the room. After 12 hours check your carpet. If it feels dry you can safely put the damaged portion back down on the ground. Make sure to keep a constant airflow over the carpet for another 24 hours to ensure all moisture has been removed. If your carpet is still not dry you may have to consult professional services to repair your water damaged carpet.

Taking quick action to clean up a damaged carpet can be hard work but it will better your chances to save it. Thus cutting down on costs and keeping you safer by eliminating the chances for harmful molds.

http://www.rightwayrestoration.com


About the Author:
Vic Roberts is Vice President/Co-owner of Right Way Restoration. Right Way is an IICRC certified restoration company based in Atlanta, Ga. but provides services nationwide throughout the continental United States.

http://www.rightwayrestoration.com



Article Originally Published On: http://www.articlesnatch.com


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