Mold, like water damage and the resulting moisture, is a pervasive problem in most homes. Cleaning up afterward can be expensive and take hours of your time. But you don’t have to worry when mold spores enter your home because there are simple steps you can take to prevent the growth of mold after water damage. Protecting your home after the fact will help prevent issues and save you money and valuable cleanup time.
Following a spill, the first thing you will notice is water damage. This moisture can lead to mold growth or other harmful situations, such as wood rot or property damage, if not handled correctly. In addition to preventing further water damage by removing standing pools of water, it is essential to take immediate steps to prevent mold from growing after water damage. The sooner you act, the less mold you will have to deal with later.
Here are some steps you may take after water damage to avoid mold growth:
Keep Air Moving & Water Out
The most crucial step is to keep the air moving. During the hot and humid months, this can be tough because it may be hard to keep the air flowing through your House as you battle against repairers. Make sure you have a fan running 24/7 to help with ventilation and prevent mold from growing. Be sure to leave the window open for good airflow.
Remove Wet Items from the House
Removing wet items from the House that you cannot clean or dry is another crucial step. When you remove an item, make sure to keep the item in a sealed plastic bag. It will allow for easy removal and prevent an outbreak of mold or mildew later on. While removing wet items, clean them as soon as possible.
Use a Dehumidifier
When dealing with flood damage, it is essential to use a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture that may lead to mold growth. It is also important to keep windows open for good ventilation. Be sure to keep food and drinks away from wet floors if the flood water is contaminated.
Clean & Dry Up Water Stains on Walls & Surfaces
As you clean up after water damage, ensure you remove any possible water stains on the walls and other surfaces. Mold will grow in and around these stains, so be sure to remove them as well. Consult Water & Mold Cleanup Services for Mold Removal services.
Regular Mold Testing
Finally, you will want to ensure that you are testing your home regularly to ensure that you are kept within the recommended mold levels. Many mold spores can be airborne; if you have sensitive people or children in your home, it may be wise to test often. Airborne Mold Testing can help you keep an eye on the mold levels in your home.
Proper mold cleanup can take time and money, and it is best to get professional help. If you follow these five steps, you can help prevent widespread damage that goes beyond your repair costs. It is also worth noting that you should always hire a mold remediation specialist to avoid the risk of health consequences from mold exposure.