Preventing Mold After Water Damage: Our Guide

Dealing with water damage is stressful enough, but the threat of mold growth can make it even worse. Mold can be hazardous to the health of those in your space. So understandably, many Vancouver WA homeowners worry about mold appearing after their property has been affected by water. 

There are steps you can take to prevent the adverse effects of mold, which involves preventing growth altogether, including drying and sanitizing affected areas. But the best prevention against mold regrowth is with professional remediation.

Our experts have put together this guide to help you understand how to prevent mold after water damage and keep your home safe and healthy.

Understanding Mold Growth

Mold tends to grow in humid areas or areas where there is a lot of moisture. So here’s what to look for:

• Small black or white spots
• Hidden areas, such as behind ceiling tiles or wall coverings
• A musty smell
• Other signs of mold in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and basements

Present mold causes health issues and shows up in symptoms like fever and difficulty breathing. Those with existing conditions like asthma should not be near mold, since they are more susceptible to its adverse effects.

What causes mold to grow?

Moisture is the main cause of mold growth. It thrives in damp, dark places. So when water damage occurs, it creates the perfect environment for mold to grow. This can happen quickly, often within 24-48 hours after water exposure. This is the timeframe you have to stop mold and mildew growth after you experience water damage – whether it’s from flooding or a natural disaster.

In any area where mold begins to grow, it will stay active – even if there isn’t any moisture. And when moisture hits the mold, it will grow again. Mold does not go away until it’s actually removed.

DIY Mold Prevention Techniques

Keeping your home dry and clean is key in preventing mold after water damage. The faster you can act, the better.

To begin, start the drying process as soon as you can – otherwise, you’ll be left with damage requiring hefty and time-consuming repairs. Then take the following steps:

1. Turn off your water.
2. Turn off all HVAC systems, air conditioning and heating (as they can interrupt the drying process).
3. Remove standing water as quickly as possible.
4. Remove wet carpets and padding.
5. Use fans and dehumidifiers to dry the area, but carefully. While they can dry out moisture, they can also spread mold spores.
6. Clean and disinfect all affected surfaces.
7. Increase air circulation by opening windows and doors.
8. Document all damage for your insurance company.

How do you prevent mold in the bathroom and kitchen?

Bathrooms and kitchens are the most prone areas to moisture and mold growth. People often struggle to keep these areas mold-free, especially after water damage.

So make sure to use exhaust fans during and after showers or cooking, wipe down wet surfaces regularly, fix any leaks promptly, and use mold-resistant shower curtains and bath mats.

It’s important to note that DIY methods like bleach are often ineffective and cause mold to spread to other areas of the home. Your best bet for full restoration is bringing in the professionals, like BCC Restoration. They have the equipment and expertise to dry out areas, spot mold, and restore any damage.

What is mold remediation? (and how do professionals handle it?)

Mold remediation is the process of handling current mold growth by identifying, removing, and preventing growth. This comprehensive approach makes sure that mold doesn’t have a chance to take hold. Professional mold remediation companies use specialized equipment to thoroughly dry affected areas. They also apply professional-grade antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold growth. 

Restoration services are typically covered in insurance policies – but check with your insurance plan to see if water damage and restoration repairs are covered.

Your Experts in Mold Remediation and Restoration

While at-home methods can help, they may not be enough to fully prevent mold growth – especially after significant water damage. This can lead to ongoing mold problems and potential health risks.

Our professional mold prevention services offer:

• Advanced water extraction and drying techniques
• Thorough inspection to identify hidden moisture
• Application of professional-grade antimicrobial treatments
• Expert advice on preventing future mold growth

So don’t let mold take over your home after water damage! Reach out to us today and get started with a service. We’ve been helping property owners in Vancouver WA for over 18 years remove and prevent mold for a healthier environment.