Dealing with Mold Damage After a Flood

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth after a storm in Shenandoah, TX.

Managing Mold Damage Following a Flood

If you've had a flood in your Shenandoah, TX, home due to a storm, it may be some time before you're able to get back in to clean up the standing water. If you've been gone for more than a day or two, mold growth will have already started. Sewage in the water will pose potential health effects from bacteria. If a large area has been affected, you may need to contact a professional restoration company to remove the water and do the necessary repairs. It's important to act as quickly as possible. Following the steps below will ensure that the problem is resolved before the mold and bacteria are able to spread any further.

1. Remove Wet Items

Any saturated items to be removed right away. Things like upholstered furniture, carpeting, pillows or curtains should be taken outside to dry. A wet vac can be used to suck out excess moisture. Some items, like rugs and sofas, may be salvageable if professionally cleaned and sanitized. Appliances, such as refrigerators and washing machines, may need to be discarded, as they contain insulation that could contain hidden mold growth.

2. Get Rid of the Water

Use sump pumps and trash pumps to clear the standing water. Whether you do it yourself or hire a restoration company to bring in specialized equipment, all the excess water needs to be removed. Air movers and dehumidifiers should then be used to clear the moisture from the air and from places like walls and floorboards.

3. Getting Rid of the Mold

Once the moisture has been taken removed, small levels of mold can be cleaned with detergent, bleach and hot water. For any larger problems, a restoration company should be called to do a thorough inspection, remove and repair any structural damage, and make sure all mold and bacteria has been completely eradicated.

Getting rid of mold growth after a flood is no easy task, but by following the steps outlined above, you can make sure your home is free of any possible health effects and restored to its pre-storm condition.