Most mold damage is usually the result of a flood or leak inside your home. Emergency water removal in Smyrna, GA, is crucial in protecting your home from mold growth.
Water can come from several sources throughout the house. It’s important to locate the source of your water leak as quickly as possible to prevent future mold damage. If the source of the flood is a water fixture like a faucet or toilet, stop the flow of water by turning off your water main. The water main is usually located outside your home. Turning off the water main will stop the flow of water to every part of your home. Structural damage from a storm or natural disaster can also cause water damage inside your home. If storm damage has affected your roof, wait until the storm has cleared before trying to cover any holes in your roof with a plastic tarp.
Once you’ve located and stopped the flow of water through your home, it’s time to remove as much excess water as possible. A wet-dry vacuum cleaner is the best tool for this job. Use your wet-vac to remove as much water as you can from the flooded area. Be mindful of the location of your electrical outlets when you use your wet-vac to avoid an accident. Never run a wet-vac, extension cords, or other electronic devices in a flooded area, as this can be an electrical hazard. Use towels or a mop to treat smaller floods.
Waterlogged materials like rugs, carpets, linens, and fabric furniture are more susceptible to mold formation. It’s very difficult to remove all the water from fabrics and cushions, which is why most professionals recommend discarding these items to prevent a mold infestation.
Standing water in your home can also contribute to mold formation in your walls. Drywall and insulation are usually removed after a flood or leak because it’s very difficult to completely remove water from these materials. Wood frame and supports can be treated depending on how long they’ve been exposed to standing water. Wood that’s beyond saving must be replaced to prevent structural failure and mold formation.
In addition to removing standing water and soaked materials, remediation professionals will also treat your home for mold using industrial strength chemicals. DIY techniques and store-brand cleaners aren’t strong enough to stop a mold infestation, especially after a major flood. Remediation experts are professionally trained to handle these caustic chemicals safely and effectively to protect your family from a future outbreak. They will also use specialized equipment like dehumidifiers and industrial-grade filtration machines to purify the air of mold spores and excess humidity. HEPA filtration is necessary to treat a potential mold infestation; these filters kill mold spores on contact, preventing the spread of these spores throughout your home.