Warning Signs of Mold in the Wake of Water Damage
A musty smell that refuses to dissipate? Or perhaps you are concerned a leak or flood has put down roots behind your walls and you are not sure what is growing there. Then there is that stain on the ceiling; you can’t help but think it might be indicative of something more.
For 35 years we have been the ones homeowners in Eastern Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut turn to for such matters at J Brian Day. Should you recognise any of the warning signs we put forward here, our team is at your disposal at (866)-621-2102.
Water damage is frequently accompanied by mold. It has a way of appearing unannounced. Where water goes unseen, mold will make a home of the damp and dark. The rub is that for most people the mold has already made inroads by the time they see an issue. An eye for the telltale signs is the best way to put a stop to it early on.
The Speed with Which Mold Sets In
It does not take long for mold to get a foothold. Twenty four to forty eight hours after being exposed to water is all it needs in some instances. Be it from a pipe that has burst, an appliance running over, a roof or a flood, the moisture provides everything mold requires.
Standing water is not the only culprit. The kind of humidity and dampness that lingers in a wall or under the floor will do as much to promote its growth. This is why one cannot be too hasty in dealing with water events.
What to Look For
Mold is of a sneaky nature, yet it puts out clues. After water damage you may come across:
- An earthy, musty odor in the basement, closet or bathroom
- Patches of black, green, gray, white or orange
- Staining or discoloration on the floors, walls or ceiling
- Warping or peeling of wallpaper and paint
- A room with a humid quality that will not dry
- Allergies manifesting as itchy eyes, coughing or sneezing when you are inside
You would be wise to give these some weight. Put two or three of them together and the likelihood of a mold problem increases.
Out of Sight, Out of Mind
Then there is the mold you are not going to see. Behind the drywall, in crawl spaces, under the carpet padding or within cabinets are where it likes to grow, which is also where water is apt to be trapped.
Do not think you are off the hook just because you do not see it following water damage. If there is a smell about the place or health symptoms for no apparent reason, something is probably growing in plain view of you. And while it is hidden it will continue to spread.
Health Concerns
Your home is not the only thing mold can do in. Those living there can be affected as well. Take note if anyone in the household has a tendency to feel better once they are out of the house. Some of the usual responses are:
- A runny nose and the need to sneeze
- Irritation of the throat or coughing
- Eyes that are watery or itchy
- Headaches, or just feeling run down
- Skin irritation
Not all of this is due to mold, but in the context of recent water damage it is something to look into.
The Case for Prompt Action
There is a marked difference when you are on top of things. Tackling the moisture and mold in short order limits the harm to your property and possessions. To wait is to let it move into deeper materials and new areas.
Left to its own devices, mold will weaken the drywall and flooring and leave you with air quality to contend with. Not to mention the cleanup becomes a greater undertaking. Professional assistance is hard to beat if you have your suspicions.
Make the Call
J Brian Day is licensed and insured and has been of service to homeowners for 35 plus years. We are on hand around the clock since mold and water do not observe business hours. With a 4.8 star rating from 183 Google reviews, we are the choice for emergency restoration in our part of Eastern Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut. We provide free estimates and back our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Call us at (866)-621-2102. Our team is here to see to it that your home and family are protected, day or night.
