After a property is water-damaged, it is very easy for mould to take hold. This is because mould loves damp environments where organic matter, such as drywall and wood, is in plentiful supply, exactly the kind of environment found in water-damaged homes. For effective water damage mould prevention tips that will help you stop mould in its tracks, continue reading.
What is Mould and How Does It Form After Water Damage?
Water damage and mould have a very close relationship. The type of mould most commonly encountered in water-damaged homes is Aspergillus Penicillium, in cases where repeated water entry occurs Stachybotrys chartarum a black mould can grow. It is a micro fungus that, when disturbed, releases spores into the air. These spores can travel long distances and will settle in new damp areas that they encounter.
Mould After Water Damage: the Top Causes
The top causes of mould after water damage in Brisbane and across the world are as follows:
- Failure to Act Quickly
If you don’t start the drying process as soon as possible after a flood or burst water pipe, you could be giving mould the opportunity it’s been waiting for to establish itself in your home. The faster you act, the less likely you are to need mould removal services in the future. - Not Taking Enough Time to Dry All Surfaces Properly
If you don’t wait until your home is completely dry before moving back in, mould after water damage is far more likely to plague you. Even just a small amount of dampness could provide black mould with the chance it needs to make a new home. - Not Addressing the Root Cause
Slow leaks that create damp surfaces in dark corners of properties are one of the leading causes of mould after water damage. You might think you’ve been very thorough, but because water is still seeping out of the pipes somewhere, mould could still move in. - Failing to Perform Regular Inspections
Regular inspections are one of the best water damage mould prevention tools at your disposal after a ruptured water pipe or similar plumbing disaster. Perform the inspections yourself, and they won’t even cost you anything. If you’re thorough and consistent, you can keep mould at bay.
If you act fast, dry out your home thoroughly and address the root cause of the water damage, you should stop mould in its tracks. Perform a monthly visual inspection of the property for the next year to ensure there are still no signs of mould after water damage.
When to Seek Professional Help for Water Damage and Mould
In almost all cases, we recommend seeking professional help for water damage and mould in domestic and commercial properties. If you’re located in Brisbane or the surrounding areas, you can take advantage of our water restoration services in Queensland. If you’d like to speak to one of our experts about your needs, don’t hesitate to contact us by phone or send us a message.