So, second step is to evaluate carpets, wood flooring, and rugs. If rainwater pushed through open or unsealed windows, or pooled under a doorway and onto your carpets, rugs, and hardwood floors, you need to dry those areas as quickly as possible. Mold loves wet fibers and will start to grow on or underneath a damp carpet within 24 to 48 hours, so immediate attention is critical.
First, remove any rain-soaked area rugs and either wash and dry them yourself, or have them professionally cleaned. If a section of wall-to-wall carpet is soaked through, pull up the affected area so there's no contact between the wet fibers and the floor. Remove and replace any wet padding underneath and use a wet/dry vac and fans to dry the carpet as much as possible.
Solid hardwood floors soak up moisture like a sponge. If wood panels absorb too much water, they will warp by bulging in the middle or "cupping" at the edges. While some panels will recover over time, others will have to be refinished or replaced. Follow these steps to dry them out fast:
First, remove any rain-soaked area rugs and either wash and dry them yourself, or have them professionally cleaned. If a section of wall-to-wall carpet is soaked through, pull up the affected area so there's no contact between the wet fibers and the floor. Remove and replace any wet padding underneath and use a wet/dry vac and fans to dry the carpet as much as possible.
Solid hardwood floors soak up moisture like a sponge. If wood panels absorb too much water, they will warp by bulging in the middle or "cupping" at the edges. While some panels will recover over time, others will have to be refinished or replaced. Follow these steps to dry them out fast:
- Sop up standing water with mops and towels.
- Open doors and windows to create cross-ventilation.
- Direct as many fans as possible on the affected areas.
- If you have a dehumidifier, set it on its most powerful setting and let it run.
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