Experiencing water damage due to a flood can be a devastating event for homeowners. Apart from the immediate concerns of water damage cleanup and restoration, one of the most significant risks associated with flooding is the potential growth of mold. Mold can start growing within 24-48 hours of water intrusion, posing serious health risks and further damaging your property. To ensure the safety and well-being of your home and family, restoration professionals follow a systematic approach to prevent mold growth after your home has been flooded.
How mold growth affects your health and property
Mold thrives in damp and humid environments, making flooded properties an ideal breeding ground. When left untreated, mold can spread rapidly and release spores into the air, which could lead to respiratory issues, allergic reactions and other health complications. Mold can also weaken the structural integrity of your property and cause mold damage that could prove impossible to repair or restore.
7 Steps professionals follow to prevent mold in a flooded home
1. Safety Assessment
The first step taken by restoration professionals is to conduct a thorough safety assessment of the flooded area. This assessment ensures that all potential hazards, such as electrical issues or structural damage, are addressed before the restoration process begins.
2. Water Extraction
To prevent mold growth, the next crucial step is the prompt removal of flood water from the affected area. Restoration professionals employ specialized equipment like pumps and high-powered vacuums to extract standing water efficiently. This step minimizes the chances of prolonged moisture exposure, inhibiting mold growth.
3. Moisture Detection
Even after the visible water is removed, excess moisture can remain hidden within building materials and furnishings. Restoration professionals employ moisture detection tools, such as hygrometers and infrared cameras, to identify areas with elevated moisture levels. This enables them to target specific areas for thorough drying.
4. Structural Drying
Thorough structural drying is essential in preventing mold growth. Restoration professionals use industrial-grade dehumidifiers, air movers, and other advanced drying equipment to eliminate residual moisture. They focus on affected walls, floors, and other surfaces to ensure a complete drying process.
5. Mold Inspection
To assess the extent of mold growth and identify potential hidden mold, restoration professionals perform a comprehensive mold inspection. This inspection involves visual examination, moisture mapping, and air quality testing to determine the presence of mold spores. If mold is found, appropriate remediation steps are taken promptly.
6. Mold Remediation
Restoration professionals follow industry best practices for mold remediation, which may include containment measures to prevent the spread of mold spores. They use specialized equipment, such as HEPA air scrubbers, to filter and purify the air. Affected materials are carefully removed and disposed of, and thorough cleaning and disinfection are performed to eliminate mold colonies.
7. Prevention Strategies
Once the mold remediation process is complete, restoration professionals provide guidance on preventive measures to minimize the chances of future mold growth. This may include recommendations for proper ventilation, moisture control, and regular inspections to catch any signs of mold growth at an early stage.
Get your flooded home checked up by Restoration 1 to prevent mold growth
If you’re looking for timely and reliable mold prevention or remediation services in the Greater Philadelphia area, reach out to the professionals at Restoration 1. Our professionals are amongst the most trained and experienced repairmen and technicians in the industry, and use the field’s most advanced and innovative practices. We are local, independent, certified, and available 24/7 for all your restoration needs and we believe our job isn’t finished until your life is back to normal. To schedule a free consultation with experts who’ll guide you effortlessly through the entire process without confusion, call us at 610-890-4141.
(Certified Restoration Professional)