subject: Cleaning Up Mold Caused By Water Damage [print this page] Water damage can and will lead to the growth of mold if it is not corrected immediately. It may be quite upsetting when property has been affected by water but clean up has to be done rapidly. Mold begins growing as soon as 24 hours and up to 48 hours from the time of damage.
The damage is not always something that is readily seen. The walls, ceiling, floors and furniture should be looked upon carefully. It may also be on carpets, check the perimeter of them. These are surfaces that people touch every day and if there is mold on them then they may be affected. When mold grows it produces spores that are released into the air. It can be on the skin or inhaled and can be a real danger.
Touching or breathing it in may cause a list of reactions. The eyes may become watery, there may be sneezing, nasal congestion and skin rashes. Although mold is on the interior and exterior of any building it is normally tolerated without issue. If left to grow inside, what is produced may be toxic, certainly irritating and may cause allergic reactions.
Each person reacts to it differently. A more severe reaction will occur from someone who is allergic to mold. If asthma preexists it can cause an asthma attack. More severe symptoms would be wheezing, shortness of breath and tightness of the chest. Someone with strong immunity is less likely to be affected but with continuous growth and no clean up they may experience symptoms eventually.
Water damage is not just the major damage associated with a flood or a pipe that has burst. It can just as well be moisture build up. If there are areas that have moisture they should be addressed and dried, if possible. To minimize its affects, a dehumidifier can be used. Make sure the area is well ventilated to prevent it from forming.
As far as cleaning mold from a building the very first step is to repair and eliminate what has caused the damage in the first place. Remove what has caused the issue so the mold cannot grow back. This will usually require an experienced professional. This is especially true in the case where a sewage pipe is involved.
A hard surface can be cleaned of mold with water and detergent, nothing stronger is needed. Bleach is actually not recommended unless there is someone coming into contact with it that is allergic. If it is being cleaned in house then a mask, goggles and gloves should be worn to prevent touching or inhaling it, and to keep it out of the eyes.
It is best to have an experienced mold cleaning professional to handle it entirely. They will know all areas to look for mold, all its hiding places. They will also be able to make recommendations on what can and cannot be saved. Its also safer since there does not have to be any possible contact with the mold. Water damage can be a DIY project but to prevent or clean up mold it is best to go for the pro.
