Problem: Wet Carpet
The problem with drying carpet is, it is hard to tell if it has dried completely. Water remnants stay in the fibres and seep to the flooring underneath. Here it can cause mould, which may lead to structural damage and health problems.
Solution
Using a dehumidifier will remove the moisture from the air and draw it from the carpet.
If mould has spread underneath your carpet, use a broom to remove any mould debris from the surface. Apply an anti-mould spray and scrub the carpet. If the carpet still smells or the mould cannot be removed, you may need to replace your carpet.
Problem: Wet Walls
Wet or damp walls can lead to a whole range of problems, which include:
- Bubbling paint
- Cracked plaster or powdery fall-off
- Black mould
Solution
Before you repair the damage, you will need to stop the cause of the water or condensation. Ensure any cracks on the outside of your home are filled, you have no missing or cracked roof tiles, and you have good ventilation in your bathroom.
To remove mould from your walls, try this guide from Cleanipedia.
If your paint has bubbled, try the following steps:
- Start by scraping off any loose paint.
- Sand the surface and apply an oil-based primer.
- Let the prime dry for 1-2 hours before applying a thin layer of plaster repair paste called Spackle (Spackle can take up to 24 hours to dry).
- Once it is dry, sand the area back to create a smooth surface. You may need to repeat the Spackle process if the wall is still uneven.
- When the surface is smooth, apply and dry another layer of primer.
- Repaint the patch with paint to match the rest of the wall.
For tips on protecting your home, check out these articles:
