How To Prevent Mold Growth After Water Damage

10/20/2020 (Permalink)

Drying process in a Murfreesboro, TN home

Water Cleanup Process

If your Murfreesboro, TN, home experiences water damage, it is important to act quickly to prevent mold growth. The following steps outline the water cleanup process. These steps apply regardless of the source of the water.

1. Make sure it is safe to begin work. Water and electricity can be a dangerous combination. Make sure the power is off in all the affected areas. If you cannot do this yourself, call an electrician.

2. Document the damage. Before you begin repairs, be sure to take photo or video evidence of the damage. This will help the insurance company properly compensate you for the loss. Call your agent and ask if there are any special instructions regarding documentation.

3. Dry the property. Because standing water can lead to mold growth within 24 hours, it is important to complete this step as quickly as possible. You can use specialized pumps and vacuums to extract the water. If necessary, you can also use buckets to scoop out the water. After the standing water has been removed, there will still be moisture left in porous surfaces. Dehumidifiers and fans can speed the drying process for these items. If the humidity outdoors is low enough, you can also open windows and doors to increase airflow.

4. Clean the affected areas. Depending on the source of the water, it may be contaminated with bacteria. Fortunately, there are many cleaning products on the market today. Choose one appropriate for the surface and contamination level you are dealing with.

5. Repair and replace damaged items. Everything that cannot be fully cleaned and dried should be thrown away to prevent contamination, mold growth, etc. Other items may be restorable. Delicate items, including electronics and antiques, will likely need professional restoration. Depending on their skill level, homeowners may be able to complete some of the other repairs.
The water damage restoration process can be overwhelming, especially if it has led to mold growth. If you need help getting your home back to normal, a certified restoration service can do the job quickly and safely.