When a home encounters flooding or water damage of any kind, special attention is required for preventing mold growth.

Since mold thrives in wet environments and spores spread quickly and easily, the best way to avoid post-flood mold hazards is to hire a licensed water damage restoration firm to assist with cleanup.

To keep your home and everything in it safely protected, we’ve got tips for preventing mold growth; read on to learn more!

Post-Water Damage Mold Growth

Dealing with water damage in your home is anything but easy, and often times, homeowners are left feeling stressed and helpless. While these feelings are perfectly normal, it is important to remember just how essential immediate water damage restoration is.

As soon as flooding or water damage is noticed, homeowners should contact a reliable water damage team to begin the restoration process. When water sits for longer than 48 hours, mold spores begin to inhabit the area. Once mold begins to grow, the only way to stop it is with the help of a mold remediation specialist.

Proper Water Damage Restoration

When certified water damage restoration technicians are contacted immediately after damage occurs, the team can get to work on the structural drying and dehumidification process to ensure that mold growth does not become an issue.

When mold is found, the water damage restoration team should notify the homeowner immediately and begin implementing a mold remediation plan to reverse the damage. If the water damage restoration team is not equipped, experienced, or licensed to perform mold remediation, an outside party or firm would need to be brought in to assess the situation and determine the next steps.

Mold Dangers

When mold spores are found in the home, it is crucial to understand the severity of the issue. While there are a variety of studies that outline the different side effects of mold exposure, long-term or high-level exposure is unhealthy for both humans and animals. Mold exposure suppresses the immune system and triggers a wide variety of health issues, including:

• Cold & Flu Symptoms
• Allergic Reactions
• Eye & Skin Irritation
• Respiratory Problems
• Asthma Attacks

Types of Mold

While some categories of mold are more common than others, water damage attracts all types of mold spores, including:

• Stachbotrys (Black Mold)
• Cladosporium
• Fusarium
• Alternaria
• Penicillium

Mold Safety

When post-water damage mold is found in the home, remember that it is a very common occurrence. To keep the space as safe as possible it is important to remember the following:

• Never attempt to clean mold on your own.
• Never stay in a space that has been contaminated by mold.
• Always wear proper safety equipment in a mold-infested area.
• Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms of mold exposure begin to surface.

About Woodard Cleaning & Restoration

Woodard Cleaning & Restoration was founded in 1946 by Earl and Nancy Woodard. Located in St. Louis, Missouri, Woodard services the greater metro area (Illinois, St. Charles County, Jefferson County, St. Louis County, and many more). Woodard is proud to serve as the preferred provider for cleaning & restoration services. Our cleaning services include carpet, hard surface, furniture, and rug cleaning for both residential and commercial properties. We also provide water, fire, board-up, storm, and smoke restoration services for residential and commercial clients. For information or questions submit a form online or call us at 314-227-3932.

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Updated 04/24/2020