Water Damage & Mold Clean-Up
- The most obvious sign of water damage occurs after a major flooding event. Yet other moisture problems may exist unseen underneath wall and floor coverings or in attics and crawl spaces. Small plumbing leaks in shower fixtures, under commodes, or around water lines for sinks and washing machines create a moist, damp environment inside a wall or beneath tile and linoleum. Condensation from poorly insulated plumbing lines are another source of steady moisture, especially on supply lines that place hot and cold water plumbing next to each other. These are all prime opportunities for mold growth to begin.
- Cellulose and wood fibers will be seriously damaged by water, and are common areas of mold growth. Drywall is especially susceptible to water damage and mold growth, because it tends to absorb and retain any water with which it comes into contact. This is also true for wall studs, ceiling joists, floor boards and plywood sheathing that is often used in roof construction. Wood support piers used in older home construction and raised foundation framing are also targets for water damage, especially when flooding or improper grading presents an ongoing potential for water to collect in and around a foundation.
- The University of California at Irvine has adopted a program that is based on removal and remediation of water-damaged elements to prevent mold growth after a major flooding event. This includes removing any water or mud left behind, scrubbing surfaces with detergents and disinfectants, using a wet/dry vacuum on carpets, and replacing any wall, ceiling or floor components that have been too badly damaged to be repaired. Thoroughly dry and ventilate affected areas using vacuums and fans after all damage has been addressed. (Reference 2)
- The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides guidelines for mold cleanup. Although these guidelines were developed for remediation of mold in schools and other institutions, the EPA recommends using the guidelines in any situation where water intrusion has caused damage or mold growth. Books and papers may be frozen or freeze-dried to contain mold. Upholstered furniture should be vacuumed with a water extraction machine or should be professionally cleaned if necessary. Drapes and curtains need to be laundered or dry-cleaned according to label instruction. Linoleum, ceramic tiles and vinyl floor coverings should be wiped dry and scrubbed with detergent and water. (Reference 3)
- Any hard, nonporous surface should be thoroughly cleaned with a diluted detergent and even a disinfectant. Porous surfaces, such as wood and upholstery, should be vacuumed or mopped, then dried out completely with dehumidifiers, fans or heaters. Above all, any item that has been completely damaged or that presents obvious mold growth should be discarded.