A small flood can cause more damage than you’d expect but for mold to grow indoors, it needs moisture. This becomes a problem if there is water damage, extreme humidity or dampness in your home or business. Mold can begin to grow within 24 hours after the optimal conditions for growth. If any of these conditions are present in your home or business, mold might be of concern to you.
Mold can usually be detected by a musty odor. You may even begin to see small patches of grayish-blackish spots on your walls, ceilings, and other places. If water, excessive humidity or dampness is not present, mold will not grow. This means that from the time you begin to smell that musty odor or see the spots, it is not only a concern for mold but an overall water damage or moisture issue that needs to be dealt with as soon as possible.
Although small amounts of mold might not be a big health concern, large quantities of mold growth in homes or businesses can be detrimental to the respiratory system. For some people, exposure to mold can cause allergic reactions, rashes and even flu-like symptoms. And if you have asthma or other respiratory conditions, exposure to mold is more likely to adversely affect you than someone without any respiratory conditions.
So what to do if you think you might have mold?
Your first task is to identify the source. Is it due to water damage? It is due to excessive moisture? Where is that musty smell coming from? Are the spots the only places I have to worry about?
Once you have identified the source, you must use your judgment to decide whether it is necessary for you to consult a professional or not. If the mold growth is confined to a small space and is perhaps as a result of a dishwasher or sink leak, then more than likely you can take care of this using detergent and water to clean and dry the area. On the other hand, if the mold has affected a large part of your home, or if you are someone with health conditions, it is wise to get a professional to handle the cleanup. A professional will have the expertise and tools to get the job done effectively, minimizing the risk of health issues for you and your family.
At H2O Drying Solutions, we specialize in mold remediation services. Our experts will do a full assessment of your home or business and provide you with an estimate as well as information about strategies to help combat mold. In addition, if the mold is as a result of water damage caused by a leak or flood, we can provide immediate solutions to help in this regard. We are committed to providing world class customer service to all our customers in North Carolina and South Carolina and will even provide assistance in dealing with insurance companies. Visit our website https://www.h2odrying.com or give us a call on 1-877-251-1752 for more information!