Next week will mark the one-year anniversary of the flood that ravaged our home. We were displaced for more than a week. When we returned we were met with drenched carpeting, thick mud, and debris everywhere. I still cringe thinking about it. While the initial clean up was tedious and costly, it was the mold problem that followed which was even more dreadful.
Honestly, it was a huge mess. So much had to be thrown away because it was infested with mold. I share my experience with you and know that we aren’t these only ones that have faced this problem. However, I add this caveat: floods are not the only precipitators of mold. You can have a mold problem in your home right now and not even know it.
Molds thrive in warm and humid conditions, but you can find them just about anywhere—both inside and out. Molds especially love basements and showers. Outside they thrive in dark, damp areas like compost heaps.
You would be surprised at how fast molds spread. I know I was. Mold that you think is centralized on wood or wallpaper can easily spread to carpet, sheet rock, insulation and ceiling tiles. Wherever excess moisture or water builds up in your home from flooding or a leak, you will likely find mold. The way to control mold growth is to control moisture.
Another way to control mold growth is to be on guard. Don’t wait until the small black specks appear along your bathroom walls or in your basement. If you suspect you have a mold problem (e.g. you smell a “musty” odor) seek it out. Mold can be growing behind ceiling tile or behind dressers, headboards or closets. Target rooms that see high water usage and humidity such as laundry rooms, bathrooms and basements, if you find mold growing you need to eliminate the moisture problem:
· Repair all leaks—be it from the roof or plumbing fixtures.
· Increase air circulation within your home. If you can’t get enough fresh air in interior rooms then purchase and install exhaust fans.
· Take it from me—you need to clean and dry water damaged carpets, clothing, bedding and furniture immediately. If the water damage is left to sit for more than 24 you need to seriously consider removing and replacing the affected items.
· Conduct weekly mold checks (as mentioned above). Also, vacuum and clean your home on a regular basis.