Mildew gets its food from the root system which works its way into the material on which it is growing. Mildew can only get its food from natural materials such as protein, cellulosic, etc. In a carpet the protein material would be wool, the cellulosic would be jute or cotton.
If a carpet is used where mildew growing conditions are present then all man-made fibers (both face and back) should be used. The possibility of mildew growing on this type of carpet is very small and, even if it does, it will not damage the carpet.
The damage mildew can produce is twofold. The root system can remove as much as 90% of a natural fiber's strength in two weeks. After the mildew growth has taken place and the fibers dried out, a crackling sound can be produced if the rug is rolled. The crackling sound is the result of the crush of the hollowed backing fibers. If the mildew growth was in the backing fibers, the rug may have little strength and can easily be pulled into or may even fall apart if an attempt is made to move the rug. If damage this severe has taken place, then nothing can be done to correct it other than cutting out the damaged area.
Mildew can also leave a discoloration inside the fibers which is almost impossible to remove. The color will vary depending upon the type of mildew from white to black, reds, browns and greens.
If it is neither possible nor practical to prevent mildew growth, the carpet may have to replaced with one made from all man-made fibers.
The construction of many homes with the family or recreation room below ground produces ideal conditions for mildew growth. An unsealed concrete slab will allow moisture to pass from the ground into the room. If a carpet is to be installed, three steps should be taken. First, seal the concrete. Sealers can be obtained from hardware and paint stores and can be applied with a paint brush. Install only a carpet or rug with all man- made fibers, both face and back. If moisture and mildew are still a problem, use a dehumidifier.
This article was written by Anne Field, Extension Specialist, Emeritus, with reference from The Carpet and Rug Institute - Mildew.
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