Water damage from flooding or from firefighting efforts can lead to the development of mold, which is dangerous and destructive indoors. It can cause serious health issues and can destroy drywall, ceiling tiles, carpeting and other items in a home.
Before water damage mold can develop, contact the mold remediation professionals at ServiceMaster Restore. We know how to prevent mold after water damage through thorough water extraction, drying and a complete remediation process customized for your home.
How to Prevent Mold After Water Damage
The EPA warns that mold can develop as quickly as 24 to 48 hours after water damage occurs.
To prevent mold growth and damage, it's essential to begin water cleanup as soon as possible. After you call your insurance agent to report the initial water damage, call ServiceMaster Restore. We’ll quickly begin the water damage cleanup to prevent mold from developing in your home.
Water extraction
The first step in preventing mold from water damage is to remove any standing water from the space.
Water extraction is crucial. While a wet/dry vacuum may work for a small area, a flooded basement or expansive space requires larger, professional equipment to quickly and efficiently remove all water.
Dehumidification and Ventilation
It's not enough to remove the standing water in the fight against mold growth. Mold loves moisture, including moisture in the air after a flood or other water damage.
Dehumidification (removing moisture from the air) and ventilation are needed to dry the space. To begin the drying process, open windows and run fans and dehumidifiers.
Cleaning and Drying
While the space is drying out, help speed the process by removing, cleaning, and drying wet items. These may include furniture, draperies, storage boxes, and even carpeting.
Unfortunately, when carpet padding becomes saturated in a flood, it must be removed and usually replaced. Don't forget to remove and/or replace any ceiling tiles and drywall that have been water-damaged as well.
Safety Tip: Area rugs and draperies are extremely heavy when wet, so exercise caution when lifting and removing these items.
Preventing mold growth after water damage is not easy. Thoroughly drying, cleaning, and sanitizing all affected items can be painstaking. While we believe all homeowners should know what proper water and mold remediation entails, we also know that the specialized job should often be left to professionals.
Need Professional Water Damage Restoration? We Can Help!
Our ServiceMaster experts can restore carpets, rugs, upholstered items, hardwood, and other flooring that has suffered water damage. Professional cleaning and drying will keep mold from developing on these items.
Depending on the type of flood water, items will also require sanitization. Books, documents, artwork, and other personal belongings may also need cleaning, sanitization, and drying to help prevent mold development.
Trust ServiceMaster Restore for mold remediation to prevent the development of harmful mold in any home or space. Contact your local ServiceMaster Restore anytime - we're available 24/7.
