Water damage is never convenient. Whether it’s the result of a storm, burst pipe, or an overflowing washing machine, wet carpet is a problem that needs immediate attention. Drying your carpet might seem straightforward, but there are several mistakes homeowners often make that lead to mould growth, structural damage, and expensive carpet restoration work down the line.
At Flood Services Perth, we’ve seen what can go wrong when carpet drying is handled improperly. Here’s what to avoid if you want a clean, safe, and fully restored floor without the headaches.
Time is everything. The longer your carpet stays wet, the more damage it can cause, not just to the carpet itself, but also to the subfloor and surrounding areas. Mould can begin forming within 24 to 48 hours of water exposure, especially in humid areas and conditions.
Don’t wait. Contact a professional drying service immediately. If it’s an emergency, you need professionals who specialise in emergency carpet drying and can respond fast. Speed isn’t just a luxury, it’s a necessity.
Many people assume a few ceiling fans or open windows will do the trick. While ventilation helps, it’s nowhere near enough for proper drying methods.
Household fans lack the power to extract deep moisture trapped in the carpet padding and underlay. Professional-grade air movers, dehumidifiers, and moisture meters are essential for thorough drying. Skip the guesswork. This is where trained technicians with industrial equipment make a big difference.
Leaving furniture or area rugs on wet carpet is a recipe for disaster. Wood, metal, and fabric materials can bleed dyes, rust, or degrade while sitting on damp surfaces.
To protect both your furnishings and the carpet, remove or elevate all items from the affected area. This also allows airflow to reach the full surface during the carpet restoration process. Professional teams will handle this as part of the service, taking extra care to preserve your belongings.
Moisture under the surface is a silent destroyer. Just because the top layer feels dry doesn’t mean the area is fully clear of water. The underlay and subfloor often retain moisture long after the surface appears fine.
Overlooking this can lead to long-term issues like mould, odours, and weakened flooring. When our team assesses water damaged carpet, we use advanced detection tools to ensure every layer is dry, not just the visible ones.
Water from a burst pipe is not the same as water from a storm or greywater overflow. Different sources of water carry different levels of contamination. For instance, Category 2 and 3 water can pose health risks and need specialised sanitation.
If you’ve experienced any damage on your carpets, don’t take risks. Always consult experts to identify the category of water and apply the right cleaning and drying methods. At Flood Services Perth, we assess every case with care and clarity before starting any work.
Even a well-dried carpet can develop mould if any moisture is left behind. Mould and mildew aren’t always visible, it can form under the carpet or behind walls. Once it spreads, it becomes a serious health risk, especially for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.
Regular inspections and follow-up after your carpet drying service can help catch mould early. Don’t skip this step. Our trained staff can conduct post-service checks to ensure your space stays clean and safe.
It might seem like turning up the heater will speed up drying, but this can backfire. Excessive heat can set stains, damage the fibres, or cause carpet shrinkage. Worse, heat can accelerate bacterial growth if the area isn’t properly ventilated.
Professional drying balances airflow, humidity, and temperature using calibrated equipment. It’s a controlled process, not just about turning on every appliance in sight.
Some homeowners jump the gun by shampooing or steam-cleaning their carpet right after drying. This is risky, especially if the carpet isn’t completely dry underneath. Reintroducing moisture too early can undo all the progress and bring back musty smells or mould.
If your carpet needs cleaning post-drying, consult a specialist. We offer integrated wet carpet cleaning and restoration solutions designed to complement the drying process, not hinder it.
A dry carpet on top of a wet subfloor is a ticking time bomb. Timber, concrete, and hybrid flooring materials all react differently to moisture. Without drying the layers below the carpet, you may face swelling, warping, or rot down the track.
At Flood Services Perth, our team assesses and treats every component beneath the carpet. From underlays to skirting boards, we target every potential moisture pocket to prevent future complications.
It’s tempting to go with the cheapest option, but not all services are created equal. Inexperienced technicians may lack the tools or knowledge to fully handle emergency carpet drying or properly assess water damaged carpet.
Always choose certified professionals with proven experience. Our technicians are trained specifically in carpet drying service and water extraction techniques suited for Australia’s climate and conditions.
Drying your carpet after water damage isn’t just about avoiding inconvenience, it’s about safeguarding your health, your property value, and your peace of mind. Every mistake listed above has the potential to turn a manageable situation into a costly and complicated one.
Our team at Flood Services Perth is committed to delivering fast, effective, and accountable support when you need it most. With industry-standard equipment, 24/7 emergency response, and a deep understanding of Perth homes and climate, we take the stress off your shoulders.
Whether you need immediate help or just have questions about carpet care, we’re here to assist with integrity and professionalism.
If you’re dealing with a water damaged carpet or suspect hidden moisture after a leak or flood, don’t leave it to chance. Reach out to our expert team for emergency carpet drying, full carpet restoration, and thorough flood damage restoration services in Perth.
Call Flood Services Perth now at 08 9468 8413 or visit our online booking page for fast, friendly support. Let’s get your space dry, safe, and fully restored, without the worry.
