After a water pipe bursts or your basement floods, you may be wondering how long you’ve got before mold starts to grow. It depends on the type of water introduced and the humidity level in your home. When dealing with clean water from a broken pipe, you may have a little more time to dry things. However, if the water is from an outside source, like a flood, it may be contaminated with bacteria. This can cause mold to start growing much more quickly. In either case, it’s important to act fast to dry out your home and prevent mold from taking hold.
What Are the Different Types of Molds That Can Grow Due to Water Damage?
Various types of mold can grow as a result of water damage, but black mold is the most common. Black mold is a little more dangerous than other types as it releases toxins into the air that can cause respiratory problems.
Other types of molds that can grow due to water damage include:
- Aspergillus
- Stachybotrys
- Cladosporium
- Penicillium
These types of mold are often found in damp buildings and can cause respiratory problems.
How Long Does It Take for Mold to Grow?
After water seeps into your home, it may create the perfect environment for mold to thrive. Mold loves damp, dark places, and if given a chance, it will grow rapidly. In just 48 hours, mold can start to form, and in as little as one week, it can spread throughout your home.
The Health Risks Associated with Mold Exposure
- Respiratory problems: Mold exposure can cause coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing.
- Allergic reactions: These include a runny nose, watery eyes, and skin rash.
- Eye irritation: Including redness, itchiness, and watery eyes.
- Nasal stuffiness: Including congestion and nasal stuffiness.
- Wheezing: Exposure can lead to wheezing and difficulty breathing.
- Asthma: Mold can also trigger asthma attacks.
- Fever: Some people who are exposed may develop a fever.
How to Prevent Mold Growth?
- Remove any standing water from your home as soon as possible. Use a wet/dry vacuum to suck up as much water as possible.
- Once you’ve removed the standing water, you’ll need to start drying out the area. If the weather is warm, sunny, and windy, you can open windows and doors to help air things out.
- If it’s cold or rainy outside, you’ll need to use a dehumidifier to pull moisture out of the air.
- Once the area is dry, it’s important to keep on the lookout for signs of mold growth. Mold spores are in the air, and all it takes is a little moisture for them to start growing.
How Does One Remove Mold?
If you find mold growing in your home, removing it as quickly as possible is important. Do not attempt this on your own. It is always best to trust professionals!
Contact Leak Pros of Georgia for Mold Removal Services in Atlanta
Contact Leak Pros of Georgia if you require mold remediation services in Atlanta, GA! You can count on our premium mold remediation service! We start by inspecting your property for any areas where mold might grow, then use specialized equipment to remove all signs from your home, so you never have to face mold problems again!
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