Getting flood inside the house and drying it is already a heavy cleanup job. Usually it takes a lot of time and effort to restore the interior after getting it all wet. But what is more devastating is the other consequence of water damage inside the house—growth and spread of mold.
The appearance of mold from water damage causes a lot of distress to home owners. Mold not only ruins the surfaces and durability of the materials it clings to, it also poses a great health hazard to those who will be exposed to it. Fortunately, mold from water damage can be removed. Though water damage and mold companies do a great job in solving mold problems, you can also the cleaning by following the procedures listed below.
1. Mold does not thrive in dry areas. To gradually eliminate unwanted moisture inside, open the windows and turn on the fans. If you have a dehumidifier at home, this will speed up the drying process. When you begin cleaning mold-infested areas, make sure to wear protective clothing to avoid being in direct contact with molds. Black molds are especially harmful so wear gloves when de-molding.
2. Mold may affect walls, floors, and furniture. Before you clean the accessorial parts of your house, clean the floors and walls first. If your walls are clad with photo frames, hanged apparatus, and other articles, remove them. Carpets and mats should also be removed and left outside to dry. Mold does not react well with light and sun.
When you have prepared the floors and walls, make chlorine and water solution as your main cleaning agent. Use warm water for the solution. Inhaling the air tinted with bleach and mold is not good for your lungs so be sure to wear eye glasses or goggles and mask or ventilator mask, if you have one. Dip a rag in the solution and use it to apply to the walls and floors. After letting them dry, reapply warm water and disinfectant on the surfaces. You may have to redo this procedure for the next 2 or 3 days depending on the level of infestation.
3. After cleaning and disinfecting wall and floor surfaces, you can start cleaning furniture. You will need denatured alcohol to be able clean wood surfaces effectively. Again, use a rag to wipe the furniture. Let it dry completely before spraying with a disinfectant spray.
4. Mold may also grow in fabrics and upholsteries. To remedy the effects of mold on these materials, lay it down on a dry surface outside and let it bask in the sun all day. If sun is not available, put it in an area with a really high temperature, but this will not work for upholstered items effectively. Use a soft thistle brush to dust off the fabric. Spray items with disinfectant and vacuum to remove dead spores.
Mold is a serious issue that you have to deal with especially during the humid seasons. Mold from water damage may harm you and your family if you do not address the problem fully. To ensure that all bases are covered, seek expert advice.