Effects of Water On Carpet Padding

2/28/2020 (Permalink)

If carpet is present at a water damage site, its construction and type of installation will have an affect on dry-out procedures.  Carpet cushion or pad acts like a sponge and soaks up water to capacity if exposed to flooding conditions.  In most cases, it is advisable and more cost effective to replace saturated padding rather than attempt to dry it out.  Even when the decision has been made to dry the carpet on location, replacement of the pad may still be the best alternative. If the cushion or pad are saturated with Category 2 or Category 3 water, it definitely should be removed and disposed of. Most pads have a scrim or thin "skin" on the topside to allow the carpet to slide over it during installation.  Sometimes, usually when installed over concrete, this scrim is non-porous and actually forms a water barrier.  If water is present under the pad, attempting to dry the pad is impractical and the pad should always be replaced.