How to Prevent Mold After Water Damage
Nobody wants to find mold in their home. Mold can be a costly problem to fix and is often the result of water damage. While you might not think that your home will ever take on impactful water damage, there are various natural factors that can contribute to problematic leaks or flooding, such as a sewer backup.
The age and location of your property are key when it comes to assessing your risk of water damage, as older properties and those in flood zones can be more susceptible. It is important to understand that water damage can impact homes of any type or size, even those built only a short time ago. Appliance malfunctions, plumbing issues, roof leaks, poor ventilation, and improperly sealed windows and doors can cause unwanted interior conditions. And if you’re unaware or negligent, the presence of excess moisture in or around your home can be cause for major concern.
One result of water damage can be the growth of mold, which is a common type of fungus that thrives in damp and warm environments, like Virginia's humid summers. Because the presence of mold can be harmful to your health and home, and standard home insurance generally does not cover mold from water damage, we want to help you avoid growth and the cost of remediation, especially after a flood event.
Steps You Can Take to Stay Clear of Mold for Water Damage
If you discover water in an unintended area, you should find its entry point and the initial extent of damage. Figuring out these two data points as soon as possible will not only help you properly evaluate the type and complexity of your issue, but it could also prevent the situation from escalating any further. Basements are notorious for having flooding problems, and it's important to take preventive measures if you have a basement.
In some cases, your next step may be to accept the consequences of the incident and work as quickly as you can to clean up. Continue reading below to learn how you can prevent water damage from leading to a potentially moldy mess.
Step 1. Fix any leaks to prevent further water damage and mold
If you identify a leak in your roof, plumbing fixture, or household appliance, you should address it immediately. You may be able to repair it yourself; however, the goal is to achieve a long-term solution, so you should hire a professional if you’re not confident in doing so. Taking care of the root cause of your water damage will eliminate at least one source of friction, helping to prevent the same result.
Step 2. Dry the impacted area thoroughly to prevent mold growth
As mentioned above, mold flourishes in wet conditions. Therefore, working to completely soak up water with towels and moisture-absorbing equipment–such as a dehumidifier or fan–can expedite the essential drying process. To prevent mold growth, it is important to dry areas with water damage within the first 24-48 hours.
Step 3. Maintain proper humidity levels in your home
Simply put, moisture control is the key to mold prevention. According to the U.S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), after water damage you should keep daily humidity levels as low as you can and no higher than 50 percent. If you don’t have a digital thermometer in your home that monitors this for you, you can purchase a moisture or humidity meter online or at your local hardware store. Supplementing your efforts by using a dehumidifier can also help maintain your desired humidity level.
Step 4. Remove soaked carpet and furniture
Although it may be challenging to part with your favorite flooring or furniture, it is a must if you want to stay clear of mold after water damage. Mold will grow anywhere in beneficial conditions, so removing and replacing these damp objects is crucial.
Step 5. Apply cleaning products to hard surfaces
Are you wondering what to spray to prevent mold after water damage? For hard surfaces throughout your home, you can use a tried-and-true, homemade concoction. It is made by mixing no more than one cup of household laundry bleach with one gallon of water. You can also find antifungal sprays online and at your local retail stores; however, you should review the ingredients closely before application.
Extend Your Coverage With Our Inland Flood Coverage
Often, the best way to protect yourself from the unknown is to take a proactive approach. At NNINS, we can provide you with what you need to stay one step ahead of a water-related emergency. Our inland flood coverage can be seamlessly added to your new or existing homeowners policy, safeguarding your residence and personal property even if you don’t live in a certified flood zone. You can learn the difference between our flood coverage and required flood insurance in our article.
Sources:
https://www.epa.gov/mold/brief-guide-mold-moisture-and-your-home
