FAQ
Water damage and mold can be serious problems for any home owner. They can affect the structure, appearance, and health of your home and its occupants. Here are some common questions and answers about water damage and mold.
Q: What causes water damage and mold in homes?
A: Water damage can be caused by various sources, such as leaks, floods, storms, burst pipes, sewage backups, or appliance malfunctions. Water damage can lead to mold growth if the affected areas are not dried and cleaned properly within 24-48 hours. Mold is a type of fungus that grows on wet or damp surfaces. Mold produces spores that can spread through the air and cause allergic reactions, asthma attacks, or other health problems in some people.
Q: How can I prevent water damage and mold in my home?
A: The best way to prevent water damage and mold is to control moisture levels in your home. You can do this by:
- Fixing any plumbing leaks or other water problems as soon as possible.
- Using exhaust fans or opening windows when cooking, showering, or doing laundry.
- Keeping indoor humidity below 60% with air conditioners or dehumidifiers.
- Cleaning and maintaining your gutters, downspouts, and roof regularly.
- Inspecting your home for signs of water damage or mold, such as stains, discoloration, musty odors, or peeling paint.
Q: How can I clean up water damage and mold in my home?
A: The cleanup process depends on the size and severity of the water damage and mold problem. If the affected area is less than 10 square feet (about 3 ft. by 3 ft.), you may be able to handle the cleanup yourself by following these steps:
- Wear protective gear, such as gloves, goggles, and a mask or respirator.
- Remove any wet or damaged items, such as carpet, furniture, or drywall.
- Scrub mold off hard surfaces with detergent and water, and dry them completely.
- Dispose of any moldy materials in sealed plastic bags.
- Use fans or dehumidifiers to speed up the drying process.
However, if the water damage and mold problem is larger than 10 square feet, involves sewage or contaminated water, or affects your heating/ventilation/air conditioning (HVAC) system, you should call a professional who has experience in cleaning up water damage and mold. A professional can assess the situation, use specialized equipment and techniques, and ensure that the cleanup is done safely and thoroughly.
Q: How can I protect my health from water damage and mold exposure?
A: Some people may experience health effects from water damage and mold exposure, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, skin rash, coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing. To protect your health from water damage and mold exposure, you should:
- Avoid entering or staying in areas that have water damage or mold.
- Seek medical attention if you have symptoms that worsen or do not improve after leaving the affected area.
- Consult a health professional if you have a weakened immune system, chronic lung disease, or other health conditions that may make you more susceptible to mold-related infections.
-For more answers on mold cleaning, removal or remediation, see the United Stats EPA FAQ website on mold here EPA's Mold FAQ
Have more questions? Call 804.592.9617
ReForce Restoration is a green and environmental friendly organization that designed its procedures to be efficient, and use supplies that are biodegradable as much as possible.