You CAN Prevent Mold Growth After a Flood

1/5/2019 (Permalink)

Dehumidifiers, drying equipment, fans and air movers begin the drying process after flooding.

After a storm in the Farmington Valley, mold growth may become a concern in flooded areas. These steps can help you prevent possible issues if your business has suffered water damage.

1. Remove Items From the Flooded Area

The walls and floors are not the only place bacteria can grow after a flood. Office furniture and equipment may also be in danger. It’s best to get these items out of the water as soon as possible so they can be dried and repaired as well.

2. Remove the Water 

Leaving standing water can cause your business property a number of issues. That’s why it’s best to have this water removed as soon as possible. A professional service will have the tools needed for water removal, and they should know what signs of damage to look for so that any needed repairs can be promptly scheduled.

3. Thoroughly Dry the Area

A damp area is prime for mold growth. This is why thoroughly drying the flooded area is so crucial. Keep air moving through the area as it dries to help the process. If you have access to a dehumidifier, use it.

4. Disinfect the Area

Disinfecting the area after the removal of standing water is as important as getting things dry again. This step can help prevent the growth of molds or mildews that may cause further damage.

5. Clean and Disinfect Your Items

This last step can be done at any point in the process, and depending on the items, sooner may be better. A good time may be while the water is being pumped out of the flooded area or everything is drying. Bacteria can grow on equipment as easily as on walls, so you’ll want to check all your items thoroughly.

After a flood, mold growth can become a problem a business may face. Following these steps to properly remove the water and dry and disinfect the area can help prevent this issue. It’s also a good idea to do the same for any items affected by the flood water.