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What Lies Beneath

Proper moisture control, extraction, drying, inspection, and cleaning practices can keep recreation-center carpets free of mold and mildew.

4 min read

Photo Credit: US Products

With carpet installed in park administrators’ offices, as well as in recreational and instructional areas, there is always the possibility of mold developing. This is more of a problem in areas of the country that experience a lot of rain during the summer and fall months or that are prone to flooding.

Moisture—typically excessive moisture—causes mold to grow. In addition to high humidity or flooding, mold can develop if water leaks or spills are present. Mold can even occur after carpet is cleaned using the extraction method. While extraction is considered the most effective way to clean carpets, mold can result if the process leaves too much water behind.

Mold is a concern because it can and often does produce toxins. While mold is just about everywhere, especially outdoors, mold spores that develop excessively indoors can pose a health risk. This is especially true in park and rec centers where many young children or older people who use the facility tend to have weaker immune systems.