Mold and Long-Term Effects

Water damage can have devastating effects on a property, and mold is one of the most serious concerns. Mold thrives in moist environments, and it can quickly spread throughout a building, causing a variety of health problems for occupants.

Mold spores can cause respiratory problems, such as allergies, asthma, and bronchitis. In some cases, mold can even lead to more serious health problems, such as pneumonia and lung infections.

In addition to health problems, mold can also cause damage to a property. Mold can damage building materials, such as drywall, wood, and carpet. It can also lead to structural damage, such as weakened walls and ceilings.

How Long Can You Leave Water Damage?

The longer water damage is left untreated, the more severe the damage will become. Mold can start to grow within 24 hours of water damage occurring. Therefore, it is important to take action as soon as possible to clean up water damage and prevent mold growth.

• Immediate action: If water damage occurs, it is important to take immediate action to clean up the water and prevent mold growth. The following steps should be taken:
• Turn off the source of the water.
• Remove standing water from the property.
• Open windows and doors to air out the property.
• Contact a water damage cleanup professional.
• Within 24-48 hours: If water damage is not cleaned up within 24-48 hours, mold can start to grow. Mold growth can be prevented by taking the following steps:
• Remove all wet materials from the property, such as drywall, carpet, and furniture.
• Dry out the property using fans and dehumidifiers.
• Contact a water damage cleanup professional to assess the damage and recommend the next steps.
• Long-term effects: If water damage is not cleaned up properly, it can lead to long-term effects, such as mold growth, structural damage, and health problems. To prevent these long-term effects, it is important to take action as soon as possible to clean up water damage and prevent mold growth.