Water damage comes in many forms including sudden water releases, like a burst pipe or large spill that goes untreated, or from a chronic condition, such as a leaking roof, deferred maintenance, or slow leaks in plumbing fixtures. Taking care of the problem quickly can prevent additional, costly damage. Unaddressed moisture problems and pockets of trapped water can lead to mold growth if not dried properly and quickly. Uncontrolled humidity can also lead to mold growth, particularly in hot, humid climates.
Mold is a type of fungi and produces tiny spores to reproduce, just as some plants produce seeds. These spores can be found in the air and on most surfaces, and usually don’t cause more than mild allergy symptoms. However, mold becomes a problem inside a home or business when there is excessive moisture or humidity. When mold spores land on a damp spot, they may begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive.
All molds have the potential to cause health effects. The types and severity of symptoms depend, in part, on the types of mold present, the extent of an individual’s exposure, the ages of the individuals, and their existing sensitivities or allergies. When moisture problems occur and mold growth results, building occupants may begin to report odors and a variety of health problems, such as headaches, breathing difficulties, skin irritation, allergic reactions, and aggravation of asthma symptoms. People with weakened immune systems are even more vulnerable to infections from mold exposure.
Molds can produce toxic substances called mycotoxins. More than 200 mycotoxins have been identified from common molds, and many more remain to be identified. Some of the molds that are known to produce mycotoxins are commonly found in moisture-damaged buildings. Exposure pathways for mycotoxins can include inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact. Many symptoms and human health effects attributed to mycotoxin exposure have been reported including: mucous membrane irritation, skin rash, nausea, immune system suppression, acute or chronic liver damage, acute or chronic central nervous system damage, endocrine effects, and cancer.
Since molds gradually destroy the things they grow on, you can prevent damage to building materials and furnishings and save money by addressing moisture issues quickly and eliminating known mold growth. If you can see mold on the outside of a surface, you should be concerned about what is growing on the other side. It’s always best to have the mold evaluated and removed by a certified and licensed professional.
5 Tips to Help Prevent Mold Problems
1. Identify problem areas in your home and correct them.
Do an audit of your home: where are the problem areas? Do you notice frequent condensation on a window? Is there a water stain on the ceiling from a persistent leak? Condensation can be a sign of high humidity. If you see condensation or moisture collecting on windows, walls or pipes ACT QUICKLY to dry the wet surface and reduce the moisture/water source. It might cost some money up front to fix the problem, but it will surely be more costly down the road if left unaddressed.
2. Dry wet areas immediately.
Mold can’t grow without moisture, so when water leaks or spills occur indoors – ACT QUICKLY. Water intrusion after a heavy rainfall, accumulation from a leaky pipe, and even a spill on the carpet should be dried within 24 to 48 hours. If you’ve experienced a flood, contact a water damage restoration professional quickly to help minimize damage and dry the home rapidly.
3. Prevent moisture with proper ventilation.
Run the bathroom exhaust fan when showering. Vent appliances that produce moisture, such as clothes dryers or stoves, to the outside (not the attic). Use AC units and dehumidifiers (especially in humid climates), but make sure they don’t produce moisture themselves by keeping air conditioning drip pans clean and the drain lines unobstructed and flowing properly. Never turn your AC unit off or set it above 78 degrees, especially in the summer months.
4. Monitor humidity indoors.
The EPA recommends keeping indoor humidity between 30 and 60 percent. Relative humidity can be measured with a moisture or humidity meter; a small, inexpensive ($10-$50) instrument
available at many hardware stores. You can also detect high humidity by simply paying attention to potential problem areas in your home. Telltale signs of excessive humidity include condensation on windows, pipes, and walls.
5. Clean or repair roof gutters.
Have your roof gutters cleaned regularly and inspected for damage. Repair them as necessary, and keep an eye out for water stains after storms that may indicate a leak.
Choosing a Restoration Company
Did you know YOU have the right to choose a restoration company after a water loss, fire damage, or mold intrusion, NOT the insurance company? Choosing a water, fire, or mold damage specialist is not an easy decision and should not be made based on price alone. Time is important with these types of situations, but taking the time to do research can prove to be invaluable.
Certifications
National training schools, including the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and the National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors (NORMI), provide certifications and set the standards for the cleaning and restoration industry. Choose a company that employs technicians with certifications in Water Damage Restoration and Mold Remediation from these organizations and follows their recommended procedures. Ask to see proof of these credentials.
Licensing and Insurance
Any company you choose should be hold a valid business license and be fully insured for handling water loss situations, fire damage, and mold remediation. They should also have worker’s compensation insurance. In Florida, all companies and persons performing mold related services are required to hold a state license to perform such activities. This license requires extensive training, experience, and special insurance policies to obtain. You can check for these licenses with the Department of Business and Professional Regulation and the Division of Corporations.
Experience
Knowledge comes not only with education, but experience. While some companies claim to be able to perform water damage restoration, they more often than not lack the expertise and the equipment to do a thorough job. Choose a company that specializes in restoration and remediation.
Restoration Process
Ask any company you speak with about the process they will follow. For example, a professional restoration company should use thermal imaging and moisture detectors to help locate hidden sources of water intrusion. They should also use professional drying equipment and monitor the process often. Also, containment barriers and air filtration devices should be used to prevent dust and mold spores from spreading into other areas.
Reputation
A good reputation is extremely important. While not every customer will have good things to say about a company, happy customers say a lot about a company. Ask how long a company has been in business, and check reviews online. Also, ask your friends and neighbors about their experiences with companies they have used in the past. One or two bad reviews does not necessarily mean you should move on to the next company on the list, but a company with consistently poor reviews should raise a red flag. You can also ask the company for references and a portfolio of previous work if the information is not available online.
Do Your Homework
Make sure you’ve done your research and phoned around before deciding on a company to use. Chat with friends or co-workers, or do a search online to find out what others have been saying about the water restoration company of your choice. Make sure the company has the relevant certifications and insurance, along with friendly, highly-trained staff.
Get it Sorted Fast
Water damage that is left alone only worsens, leading to mold infestations, disease, and even permanent damage to the structural integrity of the building. Mold exposure can cause serious health effects in building occupants. Do your research quickly. Better yet, when putting together an emergency contact list for your household, make sure a restoration company is added to it, so, if you ever have the need, you can just make the call right away. 
Logan York • Seminole Firewater Restoration
www.WaterDamageTallahassee.com • (850) 222-5326
