Did you know that water damage affects around 14,000 people in the United States daily?
Mold forms when moisture and humidity are present. Once damage occurs, mold can form in as little as 48 hours. It feeds on the damaged property.
This can lead to significant problems–not only is the property damaged, but many people suffer from health problems like sinus infections from breathing mold spores.
Need to know more about how long the mold grows after water damage? If so, read on for an in-depth look at what you need to know.
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The Temperature
Mold growth after water damage depends heavily on the temperature. Mold likes temperatures between 41°F-122°F and growth is quickest between 70°F-90°F. Colder temperatures will inhibit mold growth. However, this does not mean that mold spores will not develop.
Since mold is a living organism, it will become dormant if the temperature is too cold, and when the temperature rises, the spores will become active and start to grow. It is essential to keep the temperature below 41°F if water damage has been experienced indoors to prevent mold growth.
Additionally, if the temperature rises above 90°F, the temperature will damage the spores and kill the mold. Thus, temperature plays a significant factor in mold growth after water damage.
Poor Ventilation
Poor ventilation can further accelerate mold growth, providing warm, wet conditions where mold thrives. An accumulation of moisture can cause mold to grow for weeks or even months, making the need to reduce humidity and ventilation essential for any property affected by water damage.
Good ventilation helps to reduce mold growth by providing circulation of air which removes warm, damp air. Investing in proper ventilation for any water-damaged area can help mitigate long-term mold growth and property damage.
Dark and Damp Spaces
Mold growth after water damage is a common problem in dark and damp spaces. When these spaces become wet, moisture is quickly absorbed, providing the perfect environment for mold to grow. Mold can grow in less than 48 hours in such environments and survive anywhere from several weeks to a few months.
Dry out the affected areas quickly and thoroughly to prevent mold growth after water damage. These spaces should remain well-ventilated and kept at temperatures above 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Additionally, using a dehumidifier or fans to draw out the moisture can help prevent or eliminate mold growth. Proper maintenance of these spaces is key to preventing mold growth as well. If you want to remove mold, choose the best local mold testing company.
Water Saturation
Mold growth after water damage is dependent on the degree of water saturation. Higher levels of water saturation increase the likelihood of mold growth. Water saturates a surface, creating a suitable environment for germinating mold spores.
It typically takes 24 to 48 hours for molds to begin to grow; however, depending on the degree of saturation, this time frame can range from 10 hours to 10 days. In the case of waterproof materials, such as carpets or wood, the moisture doesn’t evaporate quickly; thus, mold growth can begin as soon as one day.
Avoid Water Damage
Overall, mold can start to grow in as little as 24 hours after water damage, making water damage a severe issue. To avoid the potential health risks associated with mold, it is essential to take immediate action and address the water damage as quickly as possible.
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