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Finding soaked, saturated carpets from a burst pipe, overflowed tub, seeping foundation, or weather event is upsetting. But with quick action, many water damaged carpets can be restored and saved instead of requiring full replacement. Follow these key steps to mitigate carpet flooding issues for the best outcome.

Act Fast as Possible

The number one rule when carpets get suddenly soaked is to start addressing the problem immediately. Extracting water quickly is vital to reduce permanent warping, mold risks, and staining setting in over the following 48 hours. Time is of the essence!

Stop the Water Source

Before pulling up saturated carpet padding or assessing the scope of damage, stop additional water from spreading further first. Turn off burst pipes or leaks at the main shut off valve. Move furnishings blocking water flow and use towels to contain puddles rather than walking through standing water unnecessarily.

Extract Excess Water

Making carpets merely damp instead of dripping wet will help greatly reduce the possibility of mold and over-shrinkage later on. Use a wet-dry vacuum on floor attachments to gently suck up accessible standing water from carpet surfaces first. Place more towels over particularly saturated sections and weigh them down with pots or books to blot up moisture as it transfers from the padding below up to the surface.

Accelerate Drying Conditions

Open windows and position fans directing air flow above soaked carpet areas after extracting excess moisture. The increased ventilation circulates humidity away from wet materials to prevent mold growth. Also run dehumidifiers and crank up the AC to promote complete carpet drying faster.

Inspect & Assess Severity

Once initial water removal efforts are complete, closely inspect how far flooding extended under baseboards, overhangs and into walls. Note which sections appear the worst with backing adhesion breakdown, extensive wicked-up staining, stubborn remaining moisture, or serious mold signs already emerging. This helps determine next steps of either attempting DIY treatment first or immediately contacting professional restoration.

Schedule Water Damage Pros

For extensive water flooding covering over 200 square feet, persistent saturation deeper than the surface backing, or fast-spreading mold upon inspection, hire expert flood damage and carpet cleaning crews equipped for appropriate remediation. Their commercial equipment, high-powered extractors, disinfectants, dryers, and reconstruction training can tackle severe water damage that residents shouldn’t handle alone.

Attempt DIY Drying Techniques

For more minor soaked carpet areas under 200 square feet that haven’t wicked too deep below, try OTC drying methods first yourself. After extracting excess moisture, lay down layered fans directing air under lifted carpet edges rather than only above. Sprinkle bactericide and deodorizer powders liberally before replacing any dislodged heavy furniture. Repeat blotting weighted towels over stubborn moist areas a few more dry cycles.

Replace Severely Damaged Sections

If certain sections show irreversible backing crumbling, extensive wicking into walls behind baseboards, recurring moisture, permanent mold, or mildew smells despite all drying attempts, then replacement might become necessary. Cut away portions that pose health hazards or remain too unstable to salvage before bacteria spreads into ductwork. Install like-quality carpet patches to blend into sections still structurally sound for savings versus total floor replacement.

Final Words

By responding quickly to the first signs of accidentally flooded carpets, the damage can possibly be minimized to reasonable levels. In many cases, acting fast with water extraction and facilitated drying does allow successfully restoring carpets to pre-flooding conditions without reconstruction expenses. But seeking professional assistance remains wise anytime oversaturation appears beyond resident abilities or equipment to handle effectively alone.

Sometimes, dealing with soaked carpets wouldn’t be worth it. That’s where you should think about replacing your carpets. We at Pay As You Go carpets can provide a helping hand to you with it. We provide you with the chance to pay weekly for the carpets you buy at £10 per week. You will also get £600 instant credits from us. Visit the store and start shopping for new carpets today!