Moisture intrusion can lead to significant damage inside the home. One of the most prevalent concerns is wet carpeting, as it can cause mold to develop. Fortunately, if you address the issue swiftly, you can mitigate much of the water damage. Here are a few suggestions to prevent the spread of mold.

How Can You Prevent Mold on a Wet Carpet?

1. Remove Moisture Quickly

The most critical step is to remove the water. You can use a wet vacuum to extract it from the carpet, or have a water extraction or carpet cleaning professional soak up the moisture for you. The key is to tackle this step as soon as possible to prevent any further damage.

2. Replace the Padding

It’s unlikely that the padding beneath a soaked carpet will survive for long. Once that portion endures water damage, you’ll need to replace it to prevent further mold infestations once the carpet itself dries out.

3. Control Humidity Levels

Mold thrives in warm, moist environments, and it will start spreading within 24 to 48 hours of moisture exposure. Adding a dehumidifier to the space is an efficient way to minimize humidity levels. You can also place a fan in the room to help dry out both the air and the carpets.

4. Inspect the Furnishings

Water may also cause damage to any rugs and furniture on your carpets. Check these areas closely, as moisture could hide underneath table legs or sofas and cause mold to spread. While some pieces — such as glass and plastic — should be easy to clean and dry, you might need to hire a commercial restoration company to address damaged upholstery, as moisture can sink into the fibers. 

5. Sanitize Affected Surfaces

Even if the mold is limited to the carpeting at first, it will spread quickly to other moist areas, including drywall, insulation, and wood. You can prevent that by thoroughly disinfecting surfaces using a cup of chlorine bleach in a gallon of water.

Water damage can severely affect your home’s condition and create unsanitary living conditions. If you’re concerned about soaking carpets and possible mold, turn to the water damage professionals at SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine / St. Augustine Beach in Florida. They specialize in water extraction and offer mold remediation, emergency cleaning services, and carpet cleaning to ensure your property looks as good as new. Visit them online to learn more about their residential and commercial restoration services, or call (904) 429-4457 to request an appointment today.