How Quickly Can Mold Show Up After Water Damage?
Taking care of your home after a flood or leak isn’t just about addressing the damage that we can see with our eyes, it is also about tackling the problems that can show up later if we aren’t thorough. Mold is a pesky problem that appears quickly and can lead to multiple issues down the line that affect our homes and our health.
Under the right conditions, mold can start to grow within 24 hours after water damage. This fungus loves moisture-rich surfaces with humidity and little light. These ideal growing conditions could mean a quick spread to other parts of the house. It doesn’t take too much water damage for mold to thrive either. They can appear from tiny leaks underneath bathroom sinks or condensation around windows.
Once you have spotted mold, know that it means there are already a strong colony of mold spores in your home. If left untreated, the mold can continue to cause damage, leading to expensive restorations down the line and exacerbating or initiating health problems.
What Does Mold Need to Survive?
Mold spores come in the house through multiple ways. Once they are able to root themselves on a surface in your home, they only need a couple of things to thrive in the environment.
- Food- mold can feed on practically anything from paper to cotton to wood.
- Water- musty, dark, and wet areas of the home encourage mold growth.
- Warm temperature- mold prefers temperatures between 70 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Cold weather doesn’t kill mold, it just causes it to go dormant.
Signs Mold May Be Present in Your Home
The first indication that you should check for mold is if your home has recently gone through extensive damage or if you noticed the presence of water. Mold can show up after a fire or flood and can result from a leaky roof or pipe. You’ll want to look for stained ceilings or walls, warped floorboards, or earthy smells.
Health Problems Caused by Mold
Those with allergies to mold are most at risk and could experience anything from a rash to shortness of breath. However, even if you aren’t specifically allergic to mold spores, you can still feel the effects of it especially if you have asthma, have compromised immune system, or fall into the category of infants and children or elderly.
Prevent Mold in Your Home
The best thing you can do to keep mold from settling in your home is to be aware of the state of your home and immediately reach out for help at the first sign of damage. A couple of precautions you can take include:
- Fixing leaks as soon as possible.
- Repair or replace old windows.
- Keep a good air flow going throughout your home and maintain low humidity.
- Deal with wet towels, clothes, and blankets- don’t let them sit out.
If you run into trouble, we’re here to help. Call Integrity Restoration & Remodeling Contractors LLC at 770-966-9987 or contact us using our online form to learn more about our water damage restoration methods.