Devastating floods can strike with little warning in Australia, and for homeowners in Queensland, the aftermath of this nightmare scenario often includes battling with the serious risk of mould growth. Mould grows vociferously and can begin forming within 24-48 hours of water permeating your property. Not only can mould cause significant structural damage to your property, but it also poses a severe health risk and must be avoided at all costs.
- Learn how to prevent mould after a flood in Queensland homes with expert tips on drying, cleaning, and protecting your property from water damage.
Why Mould Grows After a Flood
Moist environments are ideal for mould growth, and floodwaters create suitable conditions for spores to take hold. Porous materials are a particular issue, including:
- Insulation
- Drywall
- Carpets
- Timber
These rapidly absorb water, providing a perfect breeding ground for mould. Queensland’s warm, humid climate only exacerbates the problem and accelerates the process, making prompt action critical to preventing mould after water damage.
How to Prevent Mould After Water Damage: Immediate Steps
The quickest, easiest, and most efficient way to prevent mould after a flood is to call the experts at Pircsa. We specialise in services to mitigate, remediate, and restore properties. This includes removing excess moisture to prevent further damage and mould remediation to identify and eliminate mould growth.
If you wish to attempt to undertake the task yourself, take the following steps without hesitation:
- Begin drying and cleaning as soon as it is safe to re-enter your home.
- Remove standing water with pumps or buckets. The longer water remains, the more extensive the damage will be.
- Document any damage for insurance purposes. Take digital photos before attempting any clean-up.
Early, decisive action is vital in preventing mould after water damage and restricting long-term issues.
Drying and Ventilation: Cornerstones of Mould Prevention
Drying and ventilating your property after a flood is non-negotiable in thwarting mould before it takes hold. Maximise airflow by opening doors and windows whenever possible and use fans and dehumidifiers to draw moisture out of soft furnishings, walls, and floors. Dispose of any waterlogged items, such as curtains and carpets, that cannot be salvaged and may trap moisture.
- Professional drying equipment may be necessary to address hidden moisture, particularly within wall cavities, and this is where Pircsa’s expert guidance and equipment are invaluable.
Cleaning and Disinfecting Affected Areas
Once there is sufficient airflow, clean all affected surfaces with detergent (non-ammonia) and water, then disinfect with a proprietary brand disinfectant solution. Be prepared to dispose of porous items, such as mattresses, upholstered furniture, and ceiling tiles, which cannot be cleaned effectively.
Get Expert Help to Protect Your Home
If you are debating how to prevent mould after a flood, the best advice is to avoid taking risks with your health or property. At Pircsa Pty Ltd, we specialise in utilising industry-leading equipment and proven methods to safely and thoroughly assess, dry, and treat water-damaged properties throughout Queensland. Please take a moment to browse our impressive collection of glowing testimonials to see how our valued former clients describe our services.
- Contact our experienced representatives today for comprehensive support after a flood, and let us help restore your property and your peace of mind.