Carpet and pad
Start with the water source.
- IfClean water, wet less than a day or twoThenPad is usually removed; carpet may be lifted, dried and reinstalled.
- IfGray or contaminated waterThenRemove carpet and pad.
- IfCarpet backing separating or smellingThenReplace, even if it seems dry.
How to use the decision rules
The rules below are written as if-then statements because the choice for each material depends on facts you can check: the water source, the time wet, the material and what readings show. Work room by room, mark each material on a floor plan and note the reason for each decision. When a rule points to removal, ask to see the readings or evidence. When it points to drying, ask what reading would change the decision.
These rules are general guidance. Local conditions, the exact materials in your house and your insurance policy may change the answer, so use them to prepare questions, not to override a professional assessment.
Drywall and insulation
- IfSwollen, soft or stained drywallThenPlan on removal.
- IfWet fiberglass or cellulose insulationThenRemove and replace; it loses its value when wet.
- IfPainted drywall wet at the base only after clean waterThenDry in place with airflow; verify with readings.
- IfContaminated water touched the wallThenRemove affected drywall.
Wood, trim and cabinets
- IfSolid wood trim wet brieflyThenOften dried and reused.
- IfParticleboard or MDF cabinet bases soakedThenLikely replaced; they swell and do not recover.
- IfHardwood flooring cupped slightlyThenDry slowly; reassess after readings return to normal.
Contents
- IfHard goods such as metal, glass or sealed plasticThenClean and dry; usually keepable.
- IfUpholstered items wet by clean waterThenMay be cleaned if handled quickly.
- IfPaper, cardboard, booksThenDry if valued; discard if contaminated.
Quick reference
- Material
- Carpet
- Clean water, dried fast
- Often savable
- Contaminated water
- Remove
- Material
- Pad
- Clean water, dried fast
- Usually removed
- Contaminated water
- Remove
- Material
- Drywall
- Clean water, dried fast
- Dry in place if not swollen
- Contaminated water
- Remove
- Material
- Insulation
- Clean water, dried fast
- Replace if wet
- Contaminated water
- Remove
- Material
- Solid wood
- Clean water, dried fast
- Often dried
- Contaminated water
- Clean carefully or remove
- Material
- Upholstery
- Clean water, dried fast
- Sometimes cleaned
- Contaminated water
- Discard
Common questions
Who makes the final call on what is removed?
The drying contractor recommends, you decide and the insurer determines coverage. Ask to see readings behind any removal.
What if I disagree with a removal?
Ask for readings and a reason. A second opinion can help before work begins.
Can a wet mattress or couch be saved?
Sometimes, if clean water touched it briefly and it is dried and cleaned quickly. Anything exposed to contaminated water is generally discarded.
General information for Northglenn, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.