How Long Before Water Damage Leads to Mold?

9/16/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage leads to mold, it is not if, but when.

Mold can start to grow within just 24 to 48 hours after water damage.

Building owners and facilities managers should arrange for mitigation as soon as possible after a flood, pipe burst or leak occurs at a structure in Perryville, AR. Find out more about mold prevention measures for commercial properties.

The First 24 Hours
As soon as signs of damage become apparent, an owner or manager should try to limit the extent of primary damage and the risk of secondary damage. He or she should immediately take the following steps:

• Contact a mitigation and restoration company
• Limit damage in any way possible
• Arrange for an inspection

A damage mitigation service should respond to a call within an hour and arrive on site within several hours. Experts should assess the extent of damage during this visit and recommend mitigation strategies.

24 to 48 Hours
A mitigation company should take measures to reduce the likelihood of mold growth within one to two days after water damage. Experts may recommend any of the following procedures:

• Pumping out standing water
• Tearing out damaged building materials
• Cleaning and disinfecting the area
• Promoting drying

It will be necessary for the affected area to dry completely before restoration begins. Air movers or fans can increase ventilation and dehumidifiers can draw moisture out of the air and any porous materials.

48 to 72 Hours
Preventative measures are still necessary even after standing water from a pipe burst, flood or leak has been extracted. Owners or managers should maintain indoor relative humidity levels between 30 to 50 percent to prevent mold formation.

Damage mitigation and mold prevention measures are critical within the hours and days following water damage. If a flood or leak occurs at a building in Perryville, AR a commercial damage mitigation and restoration company can help owners and managers stop mold growth before it starts.