Typically, what can cause delamination when carpet is wet?

The IICRC WRT body of knowledge identifiesimproper handling and disengagingas a primary cause of carpet delamination during water damage restoration. Delamination occurs when the carpet’s primary and secondary backing layers separate, often due to mechanical stress while the carpet is wet and structurally weakened.

When carpet becomes wet, the latex adhesives bonding the backing layers soften and lose strength. If technicians pull, drag, or disengage carpet incorrectly—especially without proper tools such as knee kickers or power stretchers—the weakened backing can separate. The WRT manual emphasizes that wet carpet must be handled carefully and evenly to avoid introducing avoidable secondary damage.

Ambient conditions above dew point, antimicrobial application, or tuft bind strength alone do not typically cause delamination. While shrinkage and tuft bind issues may occur during improper drying, delamination is most often associated withphysical mishandlingduring lifting or removal.

The WRT curriculum stresses that secondary damage caused by improper techniques is the responsibility of the restorer. Proper disengaging methods, correct tools, and controlled handling are essential to preserve restorable carpet systems and reduce liability.