Water damage can strike your home or business and leave a trail of destruction. Whether it is from a leaking roof, burst pipe, or a flood accident, it is hard to deal with the aftermath. One of the major challenges after water damage is mold growth. After the water exposure to any place, mold starts growing within 24 hours. It spreads swiftly; therefore, it gets hard to prevent its growth. Today, we are going to discuss the strategies to prevent mold after water damage.
Risks of Mold Growth
Before diving into mold prevention methods, it is important to understand the risks associated with mold growth. Mold quickly spreads in damp and humid places, leading to multiple health issues, including skin allergies, respiratory problems, asthma, etc. If mold is not treated on time, it can also damage your property. Therefore, it is vital to address the mold growth on time to protect your family, employees, and property.
Prevention Methods After Water Damage
Assess the Extent of Water Damage
The first step for mold prevention is to assess the water damage. Identify the source of water intrusion and find the affected areas. It will help you make an effective plan for mold remediation. If the water damage involves contaminated water, we suggest you seek professional assistance. You can call The Restoration Group in New Jersey for expert assistance.
Remove Stagnant Water
Stagnant water is a breeding ground for mold. Remove it as soon as possible to avoid spreading mold and diseases. You can use vacuum cleaners or pumps to remove water from the affected areas.
Dry Affected Areas Thoroughly
After removing the stagnant water, now is the time to dry the affected areas to prevent mold growth. Use dehumidifiers and fans to speed up the drying process. Open windows to facilitate air circulation of natural air. It takes several days to dry the floor, walls, and building structure completely.
Also Read: How Long Does Water Damage Restoration Take?
Dispose of Damaged Materials
Massive water damage creates a lot of destruction. Remove all the damaged material and clean the place where mold easily penetrates through the porous material and contaminates the nearby things. Make sure to remove all the contaminated material in a plastic bag and dispose of it per state regulations.
Clean and Disinfect
Cleaning and disinfecting the affected areas are essential for mold removal and prevention. Use water and detergent to scrub surfaces and remove visible mold growth. After cleaning, use an appropriate disinfectant to kill any remaining mold spores. Wear protective gear, including gloves and a mask, when handling mold-infested materials.
Monitor Humidity Levels
Control the humidity level to control mold growth. Mold is prone to moisture and humidity. Install a hygrometer to measure the indoor humidity level and ensure it stays below 50%. If the environment in your area is humid, use a dehumidifier to regulate moisture levels at your place.
Seal and Insulate
Once done with water removal and cleaning your place, inspect your property for any vulnerabilities that may lead to water intrusion in the future. Seal all the cracks and gaps in the walls and foundation of your property. It is to avoid water seepage to reduce the risk of mold growth.
Ventilation is Key
Proper air circulation reduces the risk of mold growth to a great extent. Keep your windows open during the day for proper ventilation. Use exhaust fans in moisture-prone areas like the bathroom, kitchen, and washing areas.
Regular Inspections & Consult Professional
If you are dealing with severe water damage and mold growth, it is better to consult a professional rather than cleaning it yourself. Professionals have the right tools, equipment, and specialized cleaners to clean your property effectively and remove the mold from its roots.
After mold removal due to water damage, conduct a regular mold inspection of your property. Look for any water leaks, mold growth, or condensation. If you find anything, address the issue promptly to avoid mold infestation.
Call The Restoration Group For Mold Remediation In New Jersey
Water damage is quite frustrating and challenging. If you encounter any such situation, call The Restoration Group. We are experts in cleaning the mess after water damage and mold removal. They will assess the damage, remove the stagnant water, and thoroughly dry the place. They use proper mold remediation techniques to remove the signs of mold and prevent growth in the future.
Call The Restoration Group in New Jersey for more details and expert consultation.
