
Water damage can create a breeding ground for mold in your crawl space or basement. Mold can lead to unpleasant odors as well as health issues. If you do not address water damage, it can lead to the spread of mold throughout your home. Mold grows in moist environments, and if you leave it untreated, it poses serious structural damage. The damage caused by mold could include compromised structural integrity and weakened walls, floors, and ceilings. This blog covers the causes of mold growth, the health risks associated with mold growth, and steps to prevent it.
What Causes Mold to Grow After Water Damage?
Here are some key factors that cause mold to grow after water damage:
Moisture
Water damage can leave lingering moisture that creates an environment for mold spores to grow and spread. Since mold needs moisture to survive and grow, even a small amount, such as a leaky pipe or minor spill, can lead to mold growth. If you do not address the moisture caused by water damage, it can lead to mold growth within a day or two.
Humidity
When your home’s indoor moisture levels exceed 60%, it leads to mold growth on surfaces such as drywall, carpets, and wood. Water damage elevates humidity levels and encourages widespread mold growth.
Poor Ventilation
Poor ventilation causes improper airflow, which means that moist air has nowhere to go. As a result, it creates an ideal environment for mold growth. Poor ventilation traps humidity inside your home’s indoor spaces, which can speed up mold growth.
Condensation
When a cold surface meets warm air, condensation forms, creating a source of moisture in your home. Leaking pipes, windows, and walls can be the culprits, causing damp surfaces as well as mold growth.
Temperature
Mold thrives in homes with temperatures between 77°F and 86°F. The combination of dampness and warmth after water damage creates a breeding ground for mold spores to grow. It’s important to control humidity, improve ventilation, and maintain air circulation to prevent mold growth.
Types of Mold Found After Water Damage
Water seepage and moisture damage create a suitable environment for mold to grow in areas with poor ventilation and lingering moisture. Mold spreads quickly and creates serious health issues.
Here are the most common types of mold that are found after water damage:
Understanding Black Mold and Its Risks
Black mold, the common name for Stachybotrys chartarum, is a mold that causes health problems. This mold is found in areas with high moisture levels behind walls, carpets, or leaky pipes.
It is usually dark green or black and produces a musty odor. While it is not inherently toxic, if you have been exposed to it for too long, it can cause health issues such as headaches, fatigue, allergic reactions, and respiratory problems.
Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Other Common Household Molds
Molds in the Aspergillus genus are frequently found in homes and can grow almost anywhere. They are usually green, yellow, or white and can cause allergic reactions in people with a weak immune system.
Molds in the Penicillium genus are blue or green and grow on furniture, spoiled food, or damp walls. They can also cause health issues if they spread throughout your home. Both of these molds grow rapidly in humid areas, which makes early detection difficult.
Health Risks Associated with Mold Exposure
Mold exposure not only affects your home but also can cause harmful health conditions. It causes various health problems ranging from mild irritation to severe conditions.
Here are some of the most common health risks associated with mold exposure:
- Nasal Congestion and Sinus Irritation: Breathing air that has mold spores can cause a runny nose that leads to sinus congestion and discomfort.
- Coughing, Sneezing, and Throat Irritation: Consistent exposure to mold triggers cold-like symptoms such as a sore throat, coughing, and sneezing.
- Red, Itchy, or Watery Eyes: Mold spores cause an allergic reaction in your body when you breathe in spores. As a result, you may have watery, itchy, and red eyes.
- Skin Rashes or Irritation: If you have sensitive skin, mold in your home may cause skin irritations or rashes.
- Worsening of Asthma or Allergic Symptoms: If you have preexisting conditions like allergies or asthma, mold spores can worsen your health condition.
Steps to Prevent Mold After Water Damage
Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to preventing mold after water damage:
Step 1: Immediate Actions to Minimize Mold Risk
Eliminate all standing water from your home, crawlspace, and basement to reduce the risk of mold spores spreading and growing. You can also use fans or dehumidifiers to control the moisture levels and prevent further mold growth.
Step 2: When to Call for Water Damage Remediation
Consider contacting OKC Restorations for reliable water damage remediation. Our professional team uses the industry’s best dehumidifiers, tests your home’s moisture levels, and eliminates hidden moisture. We dry all wet areas and clean them to prevent mold growth in unreachable spaces.
Step 3: Long-Term Mold Prevention Tips for Homeowners
To prevent mold growth, homeowners should consider maintaining a humidity level below 50%, fixing water leaks, and cleaning and maintaining gutters. You can also use mold-resistant products in the basement and bathroom to prevent mold growth. You may need to waterproof your basement or crawlspace to permanently prevent moisture.
Get Professional Help to Remove Mold
If you see mold growth in any area of your home, it’s time for a reliable mold remediation service. This ensures efficient mold removal and prevents it from returning in the future.
At OKC Restorations, our team specializes in providing professional water damage cleanup and mold remediation services. Our team uses advanced techniques and industry-best technologies to eliminate mold and ensure your property’s safety.
Don’t let untreated mold growth compromise your home and health. Contact us today to schedule an inspection.