Water damage comes from many sources, including high humidity levels, leaky appliances or pipes, heavy storms, and flooding. One serious concern following water damage is the growth of mold and mildew, which may require mold remediation.
Unfortunately, mold can spring up very quickly following water damage. To make matters worse, mold starts as tiny airborne particles not visible to the naked eye. When left untreated, these mold spores can quickly grow into a considerable mold infestation in a Winder, GA, home.
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This guide will explore factors affecting mold growth and why to call a professional mold remediation company.
How Quickly Can Mold Grow?
Following an extreme event like a flood, mold generally takes 24 to 48 hours to grow, as stated by The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Additionally, mold can quickly overtake a house or other property when left untreated within 12 days.
However, several factors affect the speed and extent to which mold grows.
The Time Standing Water Has Been Present
The best mold remediation strategy is to implement preventative measures. For example, homeowners should call a water damage restoration company immediately following issues like flooding or a leaky water heater.
Mold can be resilient; even a small puddle from a leaky dishwasher in the basement can lead to mold growth. Likewise, a home that recently suffered flooding or storm damage can be prime real estate for mold to grow.
Unfortunately, sometimes homeowners make the mistake of only removing visible water. As a result, additional moisture can still seep into walls, gutters, under the floorboards, etc., leading to mold growth. Technicians will use dehumidifiers and industrial fans to dry out a home.
A Home's Temperature
A home's temperature also affects the speed and rate of mold growth. For example, a warm, humid home is more likely to grow mold than a cool home. Humid temperatures for indoor homes are around 70 degrees.
Therefore, it's crucial to keep a home cool following water damage.
A Homeowner's Ventilation System
Ventilation also impacts the rate at which mold grows. A dry and airy home minimizes the risk of mold growth. A proper ventilation system also helps promote better indoor air quality.
Besides mold, homes with poor indoor air quality quickly attract pollen, bacteria, and viruses.
Why Calling a Professional Is the Best Choice
Nearly everyone has forgotten to throw old bread or fruit, only to discover mold growing. While this problem is easy to solve, calling a professional mold remediation team is a property owner’s best bet following water damage.
It takes mold spores roughly 24 hours to start colonizing surfaces. However, it's usually not until two weeks or more when mold becomes visible to homeowners. Dealing with vast volumes of water and lingering moisture requires an expert touch.
A professional mold remediation team can assist with following water damage, by eliminating the conditions that lead to mold. Or, if a home or business owner is already dealing with mold, a professional team can remove the unsafe contaminants.
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Call Matrix Mitigation Services LLC Today
For expert mold remediation in Winder, GA, residents can call Matrix Mitigation Services LLC. Their team is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call them today at (855) 541-1010.