How To Prevent Mold After Water Damage Or Fire damage
Mold is the most serious concern after a fire or flood. Mold is a naturally occurring fungus and can spread if there’s even a small amount of water left after fire damage. We cover everything you need to do to prevent mold growth after fire or water damage.
Why Mold Grows After A Flood Or Fire
Your home may be susceptible to mold due to damage from flooding or fire. Mold’s sole purpose in nature is to destroy organic matter. It requires moderate temperatures, low light levels and humidity. It needs moisture, but that is not all. The moisture source in the event of a water leak or flood is easily identified. You probably think of water from the efforts to fight fires when you think about moisture. Although this is the main source of moisture, there are other sources.
They can also create moisture vapor, despite the heat. This happens frequently in kitchen fires and any liquids near the fire. This is also a source of fire extinguishers. Both wet foam and chemical extinguishers contain water. Mold spores can settle on damp materials because they are everywhere. Mold can develop in 24 to 48 hours depending on the environment.
It Is Important To Disinfect And Dry The Area
Many people mistakenly believe that drying the wet areas will prevent mold growth. While drying the affected area will reduce mold growth, it will not kill it. Mold can remain dormant for many years in porous materials such as carpeting and drywall. Mold doesn’t need much water to grow, so even a tiny leak can revive it. It will be brought back to life by a small leak under your carpet or in your wall. It could go unnoticed for months, or even years depending on its conditions.
How To Clean Up Water And Fire Damage To Prevent Mold Growth
It is important to dry the affected area quickly and thoroughly in order to prevent mold growth after fire or water damage. For the best results, use high-volume fans or structural drying dehumidifiers. Next, disinfect the area using a chemical biocide. Although bleach is an effective disinfectant it can stain surfaces. Mix 1 to 1/4 cups bleach per gallon. A color-safe, hospital-grade biocide can be used to prevent bleach stains. They are available at most janitorial supply businesses and can kill mold and other contaminants. Before using a product, make sure you read its label.
Mold Removal Companies Can Prevent Water And Fire Damage
After a fire or flood, you can dry your house and disinfect it. Doing the work yourself comes with two risks. Do you have the time and resources to complete the job before mold grows? Do you miss something? The proper cleaning methods are taught to restoration companies. Many take continuing education classes. They are equipped with the correct equipment and know how to spot mold and moisture.
They Will Take These Steps Regardless Of The Reason To Prevent Mold
- Assessment and Estimate – A restoration technician will begin with a thorough assessment of the damage. They will also provide a free estimate. Once you are satisfied with the estimate, they can start work immediately.
- Remove Sewage or Water from Areas – They will usually use a suction pump or submersible in most cases. However, depending on the situation, they might use other methods.
- Dispose of Damaged Materials – The next step is to remove and dispose off any damaged materials. They will also remove personal items and structural items such as carpeting or drywall that can’t be saved.
- Dry the Area- Next, they will dry it using dehumidifiers and high-volume fans. Dehumidifiers and fans remove moisture from the air, while the fans evaporate it.
- Deodorize – After drying, they disinfect the area to kill or prevent mold growth. They will also deodorize to eliminate odors caused by stagnant water, sewage, and fires.
- Rebuild Your House – Finally, they will rebuild you home. It depends on how severe the damage is and may include new flooring, drywall or cabinets.
911 Restoration of Iredell County can quickly clean up mold damage from water damage and fire. Call 704-519-2331 now to get a free visual inspection on mold removal services.
