Flooded House: Does Your Home Have Mold?

8/2/2018 (Permalink)

If you're dealing with a flooded house, a burst pipe or water in basement or another room, you may be understandably concerned about mold. Mold is a health hazard: it can produce allergies and other health problems. And unfortunately, mold is a fast little bugger—it can grow in just 48 hours. Of course, mold spores exist everywhere you go…indoors and outdoors, so getting rid of every single spore from your home is simply impossible. A smart home restoration company will tell you that.

So, if you have water in basement or anywhere, and mold is on your mind, consider these facts about mold and then, we'll share what to do if you believe your house has a mold issue:

• So tiny! Mold spores are microscopic and can enter your house in many ways, like: windows, doors, AC or heating systems, your family pet, etc.
• Mold loves moisture! Mold spores will grow like wildfire in a moist environment and the mold will then produce allergens and irritants.
• Watch your humidity! Keep your home (indoors) humidity under 45%.
• What's that smell? Mold produces a nasty, musty smell, so trust your nose!
• Remediation, the right way! Before mold removal companies can properly handle mold remediation and cleanup in your home, the company must find the source of water or moisture that's growing mold…otherwise, the mold will most certainly come back again.
• Signs you've got a mold issue! If you or your loved ones are dealing with symptoms like: allergies, sore throat, fatigue, headaches, sinus issues, itchy eyes, etc., see a doctor and mention you may have a mold problem.

Mold Cleanup & Ways To Manage Your Mold Issues

So, you think you have a mold issue…now what?

Here are steps to take to manage your mold problem:

1. Test Your Home:

Don't clean up a drop of mold until a company has tested to determine what type of mold you have and how bad the issue is. The test must be expansive and thoroughly done by professional that will then manage the mold cleanup and of course, remediation process.

2. Identify The Cause:

It's very important as we mentioned earlier, to figure out what is causing the mold to grow.  Otherwise, you can hire a company to remove the mold, but it will just grow right back! So whether it's a water leak in a wall, the humidity levels in your home, a busted pipe or what have you, that issue needs to be tackled first.

3. Got Coverage? Or Not?:

Check if your insurance policy covers mold removal…this way you know how much the cleanup is going to cost you.

4. Hire A Professional:

Research mold removal companies in your area. Look for companies with good references and reviews, who respond quickly to your call, who come with liability insurance and are properly certified and praised in the community.

Keep in mind that mold removal isn't an easy process and is rather complex. The good news is that with a reputable mold remediation company, the job will be done the right way, preventing further health issues and damage to your home.