How To Prevent Mold Growth After Water Damage

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

Air movers drying out wet area in Fairview, TN

How To Prevent Mold Growth After Water Damage

Water damage to your Fairview, TN, business can lead to mold problems if not taken care of quickly. The following steps outline the remediation process.

1. Document the damage. Because mold growth can begin within 24 hours, you may not have time to wait for an insurance adjuster to come out to your property. Be sure to take a detailed photo or video evidence of the damage and follow any instructions provided to you by your insurance company.
2. Remove standing water. It is important to remove the water as soon as possible to prevent further water damage. There are pumps and specialized vacuums available for this task. If necessary, you can also use buckets to scoop out the water.
3. Dry out remaining moisture. After the standing water has been removed, there will still be moisture remaining within porous surfaces. Use dehumidifiers and fans to dry these surfaces. If the humidity outside is low enough, you can open the windows and doors to increase airflow. Making sure all affected items are dry is key to mold prevention.
4. Clean and sanitize. Unfortunately, there may be bacteria or other contaminants in the water you are cleaning up. The source of the water and the surface you are cleaning will determine the best cleaner to use. Be sure to sanitize all affected surfaces.
5. Repair and replace. All items that cannot be fully cleaned and dried should be thrown away. For delicate objects, such as paintings and electronics, you may wish to hire a specialist to determine whether or not the items can be salvaged. If your business is prone to water problems, consider mold-resistant products. There are paints, upholsteries, and other materials available that can help prevent mold growth in the future.
Dealing with water damage can be overwhelming. If you need help cleaning up water or mold damage, an experienced restoration team can help you get your business back to normal quickly and safely.