How To Clean Up Mold In Your Home After A Flood
Mold is a word that strikes fear in the hearts of many homeowners. And for good reason! Mold can cause serious health problems, from respiratory problems to skin irritation. Not to mention, it can wreak havoc on your home, causing structural damage and destroying your belongings. If your home has been affected by flooding, you’ll need to take steps to clean up any mold that may have formed.
Instead of going the DIY route, you should consider hiring a mold remediation contractor. They have the tools, knowledge, and experience to get rid of the mold for good.
1. Open Up the Windows and Doors
After a flood, the first thing you’ll want to do is open up all the windows and doors. This will help ventilate your home and dry it out. If the weather is nice, you can also set up some fans to help circulate the air. Since mold thrives in damp, dark environments, you’ll want to do everything you can to dry out your home. A dehumidifier can also help remove excess moisture from the air.
2. Remove Any Wet Items
Any items that have been affected by the floodwater will need to be removed from your home. This includes carpets, furniture, drywall, and anything else that has been soaked. These items can be cleaned and disinfected, but they may need to be thrown out if they’re too damaged. Removing all wet items will clear the space for easier and more effective mold removal. Also, by ensuring that these items are dry before bringing them back in, you can prevent mold from re-growing and spreading.
3. Assess the Mold Damage
Once all the wet items have been removed, you can start assessing the mold damage. An in-depth evaluation will help you identify all the areas that have been affected so you can better focus your mold removal efforts. In some cases, the damage may be extensive, and you’ll need to hire a professional to handle the job. But if the damage is minimal, you can take care of it yourself.
4. The Actual Mold Removal Process
There are a few different ways to remove mold, and the best method will depend on the type of surfaces that are affected. For example, if the mold is growing on non-porous surfaces like glass or metal, you can simply wipe it away with a damp cloth and disinfect it. But if the mold is growing on porous surfaces like wood or drywall, you’ll need to use a stronger cleaning solution.
Water and detergent are usually enough to do the trick. Avoid mixing bleach and ammonia, as this can create a dangerous gas. When cleaning, ensure you protect yourself by wearing gloves, a mask, and eye protection.
5. Dry the Affected Area Completely
Once you’ve removed all the mold, it’s important to dry the area completely. This will help prevent the mold from returning. If possible, use fans and a dehumidifier to speed up the drying process. Once the area is dry, you can apply a mold-resistant primer before painting or re-wallpapering.
These are just a few steps you’ll need to take to clean up mold after a flood. By taking quick and effective action, you can prevent the mold from causing further damage to your home. Wait until your home is safe before going back in again. If in doubt about your mold remediation skills, always err on the side of caution and seek a professional mold remediation contractor.
Categorised in: Water Damage Restoration
