Water damage is every homeowner’s worst fear because it means one thing: mold. Whether your home has suffered from a major flood or a minor leak from a broken pipe, mold can develop quickly and spread throughout your house, resulting in costly repairs and health problems. The absorbent nature of carpet fibers is especially attractive to mold. When your carpet is exposed to moisture, turn to water extraction to remove the source of mold.

Problems Caused by Mold Growth in Carpet

Mold has many harmful effects, but the most significant include the following:

• Bad Smells: A musty scent coming from your carpet is an absolute indicator of mold growth. Even if you can’t see it, it can be growing in the fibers or underneath the carpet itself. Carpet shampoos will only mask the scent and increase the moisture problem. Extracting the water is necessary.
• Health Issues: Some people, especially those with allergies or asthma, are sensitive to mold and can develop a range of health problems, such as coughing, wheezing, and skin irritation. Mold can also cause infections in those with compromised immunity.
• Permanent Damage to Your Flooring:  Mold will cause permanent stains and discoloration to your carpet. However, water damage can also seep through and destroy the padding and subfloor underneath. By putting off immediate water extraction, you’re setting yourself up for more costly repairs down the line.

How Water Extraction Works

By removing the moisture from your carpet, water extraction cuts off the mold’s ability to grow and spread. A water extraction professional will use a wet/dry vacuum to suck up as much water as possible. Next, they'll use multiple fans to dry out the carpet or employ high-powered dehumidifying machines to speed the drying process. Finally, they'll use a powerful chemical solution to sanitize walls and floors, killing the mold spores.

For Best Results, Hire a Professional 

If the damage is minor, you may be able to clean up and prevent mold on your own. But if the amount of water is excessive or if you still see or smell mold after you’ve attempted to clean it, you need to call an experienced with water extraction professional. With tools and skills tailored for this issue, they’ll ensure your carpets are clean and mold free.

If your home has suffered from water damage, the professionals at SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine / St. Augustine Beach can help get your life back to normal. Specializing in storm damage restoration and mold remediation, this local business is dedicated to serving the community. Don't wait to deal with a water issue; keep your home and family safe and address the problem right away. For immediate help with a mold or water issue, call (904) 429-4457 or visit their website to learn more about their services.