Mold and Your Home
The connection between water damage and mold is strong, and with time it grows stronger. Don’t believe me? As a professional water damage cleanup services company we have witnessed major destruction like weakening of wooden floors, wooden structures and deterioration of the overall health of the property caused by mold. The reason behind this issue might not always be heavy rains or flood like situations. Even a small leakage under the sink or dampness in the basement can cause mold growth and alleviate the situation if not treated in time.
Why does this happen
Water damage is directly responsible for mold growth. Mold spores are present in the atmosphere, indoors and outdoors, but they get activated even if they come in contact with the minutest amount of water. Mold often thrives on materials such as wood, carpet, wall, and gets activated within 24-48 hours of exposure to water.
Reasons that Activate Mold Growth
Moisture
As mentioned before, mold spores are constantly present in the air. When water gets soaked or collected in the base materials, it provides the necessary amount of moisture that supports growth and multiplication of mold.
Ignorance
When mold comes in contact with moisture, it takes as less as 24 to 48 hours to start breeding and if left unattended can grow at an exponential pace. Therefore, being professional water damage clean up Services Company we recommend house owners to not waste time and get the property inspected for water damages within a day or two.
Poor Inspection
Sometimes even when you call on professional water damage experts in time, the problem of mold can go undiscovered due to poor inspection. This is why it is essential to contact professional water damage cleanup services based on in depth research.
Underlying Causes of Water Damages Most Likely to Cause Mold
Silent Leaks
Slow dripping water from kitchen sinks, hidden leakages behind walls are primary reasons of growing mold issues as they tend to go unnoticed for a long duration, most often until it starts showing damage on the outside. These are some of the worst situations as they create a persistent damp environment for mold to thrive.
#Tip: So periodically have a look under the kitchen sinks. Also, check walls regularly for peeling paint, soft patches etc to find early signs of hidden leaks.
Floods or Malfunctioning Appliances
Whether the water is accumulated due to floods or malfunctioning of appliances, the chances are that large amount of water is absorbed by the floor, carpet and furniture, making it extremely important to get it dried from a professional water damage cleanup services company. If not, it can lead to serious mold issues.
Sewage Backups
Sewage backups create one of the most dangerous conditions for mold growth. The moisture from contaminated water can quickly soak into floors, walls, and other porous materials, creating an ideal environment for mold to spread. Since this type of water carries harmful bacteria and pollutants, professional cleanup is critical from the start.
The Mold Growth Timeline
Well, as a homeowner it is essential for you to learn closely about the mold timeline.
0-24 hours: Mold spores get ready to be activated in the presence of moisture.
24-48 hours: It is possible to see visible mold patches occurring on the affected area.
3-7 days: That is the time mold colonies take to establish.
1-2 week: This much time is enough for mold to spread across the property leading to serious issues.
Ways to Control Mold Growth Post Water Damage
Inspect and Act
Identify the source of water intrusion, whether it’s a pipe leak, roof damage, or drainage issue and repair it promptly before moisture creates conditions for mold growth.
Call Professional Water Damage Cleanup Services
There is nothing better leaving the job to a professional. When you come across water damage, make sure to contact a trusted water damages restoration partner and let experts take control.
Miscellaneous Activities
When water damages occur and mold starts to breed, there is nothing better that leaving the issue in the hands of the experts. But before professional help arrives, to restrict more damage, you can try drying up the affected area in the best possible manner.
Mold and Health Risks
Well, until now we only spoke about the threats mold could pose to your property. But did you know, mold can be extremely dangerous for the health? Exposure to mold can be dangerous (especially in the long run) as it causes the following health issues:
- Chronic coughing and sneezing
- Rashes on the skin and itchiness
- It aggravates respiratory infections
- Flares up asthma
- Cause headaches and fatigues
Handling Water Damage on Your Own – You might want to rethink
Water damage might look in control initially, but the after effects can lead to several issues such as damage to the property and even pose serious health hazards. However, to avoid these situations, it is highly recommended to connect with a professional.
At Daleen Services, we are experts at handling water and fire damage restoration. We are available 24X7 to make things faster and foolproof.
(262)-592-8735