We’ve got some advice, tips and links to deal with water damage from the recent storm.

Water damage describes a large number of possible losses caused by water intruding where it destroys and rots material such as carpet, wood, drywall, furniture, rugs, and many others.

WET CARPET?

With Wall-to-Wall Carpet the key is to extract as much water as possible – as soon as possible. Use towels or an extraction machine.

Raise any solid base furniture up on blocks so the furniture
doesn’t bleed onto the carpet and the water doesn’t damage wood furniture.

You can put aluminum foil under any furniture with legs.

If the water damage is extensive it is strongly recommended that you remove & replace the carpet and pad. Water rising from rivers, streams, ground surface or standing water is considered “black water damage” which contains unsanitary agents, pesticides, chemicals and harmful bacteria and fungi. These can cause discomfort or sickness in an indoor environment.

WET ORIENTAL RUGS?

The first question is whether the rug is wool or synthetic. You must determine the material immediately.

WOOL/NATURAL FIBERS

Do NOT roll up a wool rug that is wet or the colors may run and bleed. Also, keep the wet rug face up. It is best to contact a professional rug cleaning service to pick up the rug or bring your rug in immediately to prevent damage.

SYNTHETIC MATERIALS

You can drape an area rugs made with synthetic material over something to let it dry. Or roll it up and let it stand to encourage water to drain quickly.

WATER DAMAGE TIPS

TIP: DRYWALL DAMAGE IS A REAL CONCERN Water on drywall is a much bigger problem than your carpet and rugs. The longer the drywall is wet, the greater chance you have for mold and mildew. This can be a serious health concern. It is best to remove all wet carpet, carpet pad and rugs to help prevent moisture from getting into the drywall.

TIP: FANS ARE NOT THE BEST INITIAL SOLUTION The key at first is to remove moisture from the air. Fans will circulate humid air and could create more damage. Use dehumidifiers to remove the moisture first. 

TIP: ALWAYS CHECK WITH YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY ON COVERAGE Ground water damage is generally not covered by insurance. However, failure of an appliance (i.e. broken sump pump) is typically is covered by insurance. When in doubt always call your insurance company!

IMPORTANT LINKS

Call Ayoub Carpet Service at 703-378-2007 or info@rugcare.com or additional professional advice and information can be found at the following websites:

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification
(IICRC)

The
Carpet & Rug Institute