Home & building owners can take steps to prevent mold

7/1/2016 (Permalink)

Intrusion of water into your building can result in mold growth. Water intrusions can result from storm damage, plumbing or equipment failures, long-standing leaks and poor humidity control. When water intrusions are not addressed right away, the resulting damage can present increased risk of harmful mold growth.

If the humidity and moisture levels in a water-damaged environment are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiply. Organic materials found inside a building, such as wood, paper, drywall and insulation, provide food sources for mold to flourish. Excessive mold growth can lead to indoor environmental conditions that pose a health threat.

SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin handles water damages every day and know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth. Mold is more likely to spread when an environment has been subject to moisture for a long period of time. If your property has sustained recent water damage, it is vital to remove excess water and dry the structure promptly. If there is an ongoing moisture problem in the building, it is important to be alert for:

• The presence of visible mold.

• Strong musty odors which may indicate mold is present.

• Any evidence of past moisture problems that might have caused undetected mold growth.

• Excessive humidity.

To control mold growth in your business, I offer you the following tips:

• Repair leaky plumbing and leaks in the foundation of your building

• Reduce moisture with increased surface temperatures or reduced humidity levels in the air. To increase surface temperatures, insulate or increase air circulation. To reduce humidity, repair leaks, increase ventilation if outside air is cold and dry or use a dehumidifier.

• Keep heating, ventilation and air conditioning drip pans clean, flowing properly and unobstructed

• Maintain indoor humidity below 50 percent

• Perform regular inspections and maintenance on buildings and heating and air conditioning equipment

• Clean and dry wet or damp spots within 1-2 days

• Provide adequate drainage around the foundation of your building.  Regularly maintain roof gutters, and ensure that water does not collect near the foundation

• Insulate windows, walls, pipes, roofs, exterior, floors and other cold surfaces to reduce condensation

• Watch your utility bills; an unusually high water bill could signal an interior leaking problem 

If you are sure or suspect that there is mold in your building, call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin immediately at (916) 632-2250. The longer you wait to call, the mold growth with continue to spread, resulting in a greater chance of unrecoverable property. SERVPRO professionals have the expertise to prevent or mitigate the devastating effects of mold damage.