How fast does mold grow after a storm in Columbia SC?
In Columbia, South Carolina the time for growth of mold after a storm can be affected by many factors, including the humidity of the home. If the conditions are right the mold spores could grow in just 24 to 48 hours. Most symptoms are apparent within a matter of hours. However, some homeowners may not be able to identify them for 18 to 21 days. Mold spores, which appear to be invisible tiny organisms, are able to be spread through water and other moisture sources in your Columbia SC property.The best way to prevent the growth of mold after the storm is to get the area as dry as possible. During the first 48 hours after a storm, moisture from rain can begin to form colonies, and they will continue to grow as long as the area is still damp. Mold can develop on a variety of materials such as ceiling tiles, insulation, cardboard, and wood. It can also grow in drywall, paints and other materials.
In the initial few days after a storm, Columbia SC homeowners should begin to clean their homes. They should clean the affected areas prior to starting the cleaning process. They should also rid the area of any materials that are porous. If homeowners are unwilling or unable to make an insurance claim immediately, they may need relocate their belongings to the outside until they can process their claims.
A hurricane in Columbia SC can cause huge amounts of mold and water damage. When a hurricane hits the coastline, the damage can be immense, and many homes could suffer massive water damage. If water in a home isn't properly cleaned, it can cause serious health problems. Mold is particularly harmful to people who suffer from respiratory problems or allergies. It is important to act swiftly before mold begins to spread.
The time it takes for mold to begin growing depends on the amount of time the water that is dirty remains in a home. The timeframe can vary from a few days to a few weeks, even just 48 hours could be enough to stimulate mold growth. Mold growth can be delayed through proper cleaning and repairs of your Columbia South Carolina property.
Mold spores can quickly spread to damp surfaces when they are exposed to water. Black mold can quickly colonize one square inch of a house in just a few days. The spread rate can increase exponentially as more colonies begin to form. Fortunately, there are some ways to cut down the rate of spread in half.
First call your Columbia SC insurance company and request an inspection. They will arrange for a qualified professional to conduct the inspection. It is then important to ensure that the property is properly ventilated and dried. During this process it is essential to use fans to keep the building dry.
While mold isn't always visible, it can remain within the home following a storm. A mold remediator is employed to clean up the affected materials. A remediator can tell if there is any mold in the home by examining the ductwork and the structure beneath. After cleaning, the remediator will sanitize the surfaces to prepare the house for re-building.