No matter how well-constructed they are, our homes cannot always withstand the destructive force of water. During floods, water erodes riverbeds through rock and completely destroys entire settlements. It can also introduce mold into our homes, which is an aggressive force.
Molds are common and usually beneficial in the environment. But if mold growth in our homes is not controlled, it can ruin buildings and cause health problems.
Properly addressing your home and drying it out after floods will prevent a mold outbreak. But how do you do it? Check out this weblink to learn about ways of preventing mold from taking root in your home. Read on:
Observe Safety
Do not enter a flooded residence until it is secure. In the case of a significant flood event, such as a storm, this may include waiting for the authorities to grant access. Wear long sleeves and slacks, along with rubber boots and gloves. Also, carry an extra set of clothing. Mold spores attach to materials and can be easily moved to another location.
Don’t forget to switch off the lights. However, avoid touching your electrical panel if you have to stand in water to access it. Before initiating the cleanup, contact a licensed electrician. To prevent carbon monoxide exposure, ensure you place the generators used in the cleanup outside and away from your home.
Dry Out Your Home
Mold thrives in wet environments, so getting rid of the moisture is key in preventing an outbreak. In order to speed up the drying process, avoid using fans. Fans complicate the mold clean-up process since they blow up bacteria and mold pores. Moreover, humidity needs to be below 60% to prevent mold growth, something that fans won’t do. You can use a dehumidifier to help reduce the moisture in the air – just ensure that the size is suitable for your space. You may need more than one.
Remove All Wet Items
Wet items can provide the perfect environment for mold to grow. If you are unable to remove the items, you should at least move them to a dry area. If you have any furniture or belongings that have been damaged by mold, you should consider getting rid of them. Also, remove all mud, debris, and waterlogged items manually. And use a wet-dry vacuum to eliminate as much remaining water as you can.
Clean Then Sanitize
After washing and drying the remaining surfaces with soap and hot water, make sure you apply a sanitizing solution. For mold-free surfaces, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests mixing one cup of household chlorine bleach. The label should indicate a concentration between five and nine percent in five gallons of water. Let it air dry.
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Air Out The House As Much As Possible
One of the most important things you can do to prevent mold growth after a flood is to air out the house as much as possible. Make sure all of the windows and doors are open to allow fresh air in. Mold spores need a moist environment to grow, so airing out a room helps to remove the moisture that is necessary for them to thrive. Additionally, air circulation will help to prevent the build-up of moisture in the air.
Do Not Concentrate So Much On The Inside And Forget The Outside
Regularly inspect the exterior of homes and structures for groundwater accumulation. When the soil gets soaked, mold can begin to grow outside and spread indoors. If water is pooling against your building’s foundation, you must drain the water away from the structure. Moisture control is the key to preventing mold formation.
Don’t Let Water Sit In Any Containers For Long
Still water is an ideal place for mold to colonize and grow. Many toxins present in stagnant water are naturally organic, making them a good food supply for mold. Mold can begin to grow within 72 hours in clean water and in as little as 24 hours in contaminated still water. You wouldn’t want to deal with the aftermath of a mold outbreak, so get rid of those containers as early as now.
Following these tips will help you prevent mold outbreaks after your home floods. However, if you feel overwhelmed, it is best to reach out to a professional. Restoration companies have the experience and equipment necessary to get your home back to its pre-flood condition. They will be able to assess the damage and provide you with a plan of action. Mold can be a serious issue after your home floods. Not only is it a health hazard, but it can also cause extensive damage to your home.
