So flood waters have receded and, thanks to your Flood Solutions flood vents, your home is structurally sound. The next step is to dry out your home to prevent growth of mold or mildew. This needs to be done as quickly as possible, as residents of Hamptons Roads, Virginia found out during recent flooding.
Mold and mildew can have serious health consequences. Mold can lead to infections, difficulty breathing, skin reactions and long-term health problems. Mold and mildew consist of microscopic organisms that thrive in moist, wet areas. You can’t always detect them, but they often discolor walls or ceilings and have a musty or foul odor.
Mold and mildew can start to grow as quickly as 24 hours after water exposure. The faster you act, the better your chances of reducing mold damage. Start by removing anything porous from your home, such as carpets or insulation. Use a bleach-water solution to wash non-porous items, such as floors, concrete walls, countertops, and glass. When using the bleach mixture, open windows and doors to increase airflow and ventilation and wear protective gloves and eye gear. Fans and dehumidifiers can also help remove excess moisture, but don’t turn on your HVAC system until its been inspected and cleaned. A mold-infested HVAC system can quickly spread mold throughout your home. Unfortunately, drying your home is not a quick process – it can take days or even weeks.
Depending on the extent of the water damage, you might want to consider hiring a professional cleaning and drying company to restore your home. They’ll make sure the job is done properly and document damages and restoration for insurance purposes.
It’s always a good idea to minimize damage to your home through good flood preparation. Install FEMA compliant flood vents, use mold-mildew resistant building materials, and don’t install carpets or other porous materials in your basement. Contact Flood Solutions to learn more.
