As homeowners, it is difficult to prepare for every type of scenario and situation that could result in water damage to your carpeting. Some of the more common causes of flooding within the home include:

1. Broken Water Pipes
2. Overflowing Dishwashers
3. Toilet Overflows
4. Overflowing Washing Machines
5. Sewer Backups
6. Leaky Roofs

Initially, especially if the room is under a few inches of water or more, you might decide your only recourse is to replace the carpeting. However, you might be able to save some money by having it repaired instead using our emergency water damage and restoration services.

The first, and most important thing you need to do determine the cause of the water damage and stop the flow of water into the room. The next thing you will want to do is call for emergency service right away. The longer the carpeting sits in standing water and remains wet the more damage it can experience. In addition, you will want to avoid walking on the carpeting as much as possible, as excessive foot traffic could cause further damages to already wet carpeting.

Once we arrive, we can help assess the situation, provide assistance in removing all furniture and items out of room, dry it off and storing it in a dry area of the home. Ideally, the excess water needs to be extracted from the carpeting, fans set up, and other steps taken to help dry out the carpeting as quickly as possible to prevent extensive damages.

The source of the water is the determining factor often used to decide the best course of action – repair or replace the carpeting. Regardless of the end result, it is essential to get the carpeting dried out as soon as possible to avoid further damages, not only to the carpeting, but also drywall, baseboards, underlayments, and subflooring.

If the source of the water was from a “sanitary” source – that is, broken fresh water pipe – then it is possible to save the carpeting. Once the carpeting is fully dried, it is treated with various agents to prevent mold, mildew, and bacteria from developing.

If the source of the water is from an “unsanitary” source – that is a backed up sewer line, toilet overflow, or dishwasher or washing machine overflow – the extent and level of contamination is assessed to determine the most appropriate action to take. For instance, with washing machines and dishwashers, the contaminants are easily treatable with anti-bacterial agents, so the carpeting could be saved.

For sewage line backups and toilet overflows, then it might be necessary to replace the carpeting. Again, it depends on the actual amount of contamination. In cases where there was “black” water that flooded room, then it is often better to replace the carpeting, simply because “black” water means it is full of different containments, which could include raw sewage.

If you ever experience water damage or flooding to your carpeting, remember Dr. Carpet is here to help. We offer 24 hour emergency response, so we can be at your home quickly and help minimalize the damages. Call us at 647.800.5199 now!