Water-damaged carpet is a danger no matter the climate, but there are particular concerns in humid environments. Moisture in the air can potentially create a fertile breeding ground for bacteria and mould, which causes respiratory health problems for inhabitants and should thus be avoided at all costs.

Dealing with carpets in humid environments requires an approach that differs from what would be done in drier climates. In other words, dealing with a damaged carpet in Melbourne will pose unique challenges that may be less difficult to deal with if it were to happen somewhere like Alice Springs that experiences a much drier climate. Here are some carpet care tips to help when dealing with humidity in the warmer seasons.

Humidity in Melbourne

Over such a vast landmass, Australia is subject to wide climatic variation. Melbourne is no different and has its own distinct climate. Melbourne has an average year-round humidity of 52 per cent, with the months between April and September having the highest humidity rates (peaking in at over 60 per cent in June and July). Humidity over 50 per cent is fairly high, but over 55 per cent is an ideal breeding point for mould. Melbourne also tends to experience high humidity after experiencing hot weather.

Dealing with Humidity

Humidity is not, in itself, a problem. People around the world choose to live in humid environments, and many will still have carpeted areas in their properties. What is problematic, however, is the mismanagement of space in the home. Humid environments require proper ventilation and dehumidification to prevent the growth of mould and bacteria. Whenever humid air is trapped within the home, mould will inevitably grow. Don’t neglect that our own bodies give off plenty of humidity, too. If you spend a lot of time indoors, ensure that your home is properly ventilated to release the moisture given off by your own body.

Dehumidification and Fans

Water-damaged carpet can often be brought back to a healthy condition if the water’s been soaked up properly and in a timely manner. That won’t remove moisture trapped deep down in the roots of the carpet, however. That’s when dehumidifiers and fans should be placed in the room, furniture removed, and allowed to operate day and night to thoroughly remove all moisture from the carpet as best as possible. In humid environments, keep doors and windows closed during the daytime to reduce the introduction of humid air into the room.

Dehumidifiers are ideal to have on hand in any case, but they’re particularly useful for removing moisture from carpets during humid periods. Always ensure that the moisture trap is dumped frequently. Place the dehumidifier in the same room as the moisture and allow it to do its work.

When The Best Still Isn’t Good Enough

Running fans and dehumidifiers day and night can work miracles on your carpet’s health, but there are times when it just won’t do. Water-damaged carpet that’s been allowed to set and to grow mould in its early stages will need more than cleaning and airing out; carpet replacement may be necessary in cases of serious damage. Whenever your carpet has sustained prolonged exposure to water damage, the chances of ending up with a ruined carpet – whether in parts or in whole – is greatly increased. 

Electrovac Carpet Replacement Solutions

When your carpet’s sustained water damage, don’t delay. Contact a qualified professional such as Electrovac to bring your beautiful carpet back to life.