Ways To Prevent Mold After a Home Flood

5/26/2022 (Permalink)

Mold growth is common after water damage. Addressing and repairing the source of the problem is critical to eliminating lingering odors and problems.

Mold Prevention After A Home Flood

As a homeowner, mold growth is a significant worry, especially after water damage. With a quick response and effective mitigation practices, flood remediation services in Punta Gorda, FL, explain that it is possible to avoid mold. Still, even if mold occurs after flooding, homeowners are not without options or solutions.

1. Remove Water Quickly

Removing water from the house is the first concern. With a significant water presence, it is nearly impossible to treat or remove any developing mold. Unfortunately, homeowners do not always have control over how quickly water is removed.

If the flood is a result of a storm, you will need to wait for the water to recede outside before removing it from the inside. Keep in mind that mold can begin to develop within 24 to 48 hours after a flood.

2. Perform a Flood Cut

With the water removed, it is time to assess possible mold growth. Professionals will perform a flood cut, which is a cut above the flood line by 12 inches. The cut is made to the wall, so the wall cavity is exposed. The purpose of cutting above the flood line is to find a dry structure.

3. Remove Debris

The mitigation company you hire will begin to remove all debris from the affected area, including insulation from within the wall. By removing all damp or affected materials, you can reduce your risk of mold.

4. Contact a Mold Removal or Mitigation Service

With all debris and water removed, you can hire a mold removal or testing service. The company will inspect your property for any signs of mold. If they find anything, they are qualified to remove it, reducing the risk of further contamination.

While mold growth after a flood is concerning, mitigation services understand how to protect your home. The goal is to find and expose all dry surfaces and remove or treat all wet ones.