Your home’s air quality should be the least of your worries. However, you could put you and your family in danger when a flood arises or if water damage occurs. Many household owners tend to underestimate just how damaging water can be and how this affects the very air we breathe. Items soaked in water for a long time typically become moldy, at the very least for more than two days, and can affect the air quality of your home. Inhalation of mold can have a negative impact on health, including but not limited to allergic reactions. It can also harm your house materials as well. 

Bacteria and other compounds that could be harmful to your health could also be present in flood water. Other materials may enter your home’s air when you clean up from a flood. These include cleaning products, lead, asbestos, and carbon monoxide, all of which have the potential to jeopardize your health. In this article, you will learn the ways in preventing water damage to cause mold problems.

How to deal with water damage

Dealing with water damage can be a daunting task, but taking immediate and appropriate action can help minimize the damage and prevent mold growth. Here are some steps you can take to deal with water damage:

1. Stop the source of the water: Find and stop the source of the water as quickly as possible to prevent further damage.
2. Remove excess water: Use a wet/dry vacuum, mop or towels to remove as much water as possible. Make sure to remove any furniture or items that can absorb water and move them to a dry place.
3. Dry the affected area: Use fans and dehumidifiers to dry the affected area as quickly as possible. Open windows and doors to increase air circulation.
4. Clean and sanitize: Clean and sanitize the affected area to prevent mold and mildew growth. Use a mild detergent and water to clean surfaces, and then disinfect with a solution of 1 cup of bleach to 1 gallon of water.
5. Check for structural damage: If the water has damaged the structure of your home, such as the walls, floors or ceilings, it is important to have a professional inspect the damage and make repairs.
6. Document the damage: Take photographs and document the extent of the damage for insurance purposes.
7. Call a professional: If the water damage is severe or if you suspect mold growth, it is best to call in a professional water damage restoration company to properly assess and repair the damage.

It’s important to act quickly in case of water damage to minimize the damage and prevent mold growth. But also, it’s better to contact your insurance company and let them know what happened, so they can provide you with the right coverage.

How mold results from unresolved water damage

Mold and mildew are fungi, which are small, basic creatures that flourish in damp environments. Mold is an essential component of the environment; without them, soil enrichment processes and the decomposition of leaves would not be possible. However, mold is an issue for people since it can damage organic things, even those in our houses and on our bodies. From  water-damaged drywall and insulation, acremonium mold can develop. Aspergillus is a typical mold species that can be found around the house. When this kind of mold is present inside a structure, it forms and grows on wet walls and other surfaces.

Noticed water damage or mold building up in your household? Contact professional services now. RidAway Home Services is one call away. They are experts in making sure that you and your family are safe and comfortable in your own homes. Schedule an appointment here.