Mould isn't only unpleasant to the senses; it can cause serious health problems, from allergies and asthma to very rarely fatal diseases. Knowing how to resist and protect yourself from these recurring pains can be worth the time spent learning how to prevent mould after a flood or how to prevent mould after a water leak.
Fungal Development and You
Mould can quickly spread after a water leak or flood, so being prepared is essential. Time is usually of the essence when it comes to remediation, since spores can begin to spread within the first 24 to 48 hours. Since mould spores are typically invisible to the naked eye, the growth of mould to the point where it is readily apparent can take some time. Visible appearance might occur anywhere from 48 hours to 20 days or more, depending on the conditions and type of mould removal involved.
The objective of all this is to stress the importance of taking measures to avoid mould growth following water damage, because even if you can't see mould, it may still be present.
Effects of Mould
As was previously noted, mould exposure can cause a variety of skin and respiratory problems that can be bothersome and seriously impact people's quality of life. These signs and symptoms may be similar to the common cold or seasonal allergies in a healthy person, with the exception that you will feel better as you leave your house. Some possible warning indicators are:
- Red and puffy eyes
- Rash that itches badly
- Nasal congestion or runniness
- Sneezing
- Coughing
Those who already suffer from respiratory issues or have a compromised immune system are at greater risk of contracting an illness from mould spores.
Water Damage: Preventing Mould
Whether you're dealing with a small drip or a major flood, acting quickly will help prevent mould growth. The stress of water extraction after a flood is bad enough; preventing the spread of spores is just another reason to follow these guidelines.
Removing and Drying Extracted Water
Obviously, you won't be able to stop mould growth if there's still water and dampness around. The best strategy for dealing with this will be determined by the extent and location of the water damage. Dehumidifiers and fans can be put up once the water has been removed using a wet or dry vacuum hired from a clean-up company or hardware shop.
Be Sure To Keep the Air Moving and the Dehumidifiers On
Drying drywall after water damage or evaporating infiltrations into the floors is easier with a combination of fans and dehumidifiers. They are useful for preventing mould growth and evaporating moisture from the air in your home. Mould can form in humid environments, therefore using a fan or dehumidifier to keep the air moving and the moisture levels down can help prevent the growth of mould.
Conclusion
Experts in water damage restoration and clean-up know how to remove excess water, dry and salvage property, and eliminate mould growth. If you've never dealt with a flood before, don't worry; these crews have the experience to quickly remove any moisture and mould from your home. If you ever need to make a claim on your insurance, many will be there to guide you through it.
