No one ever wants to find black mold growing in their home. But it is a common occurrence after flood damage and presents some serious consequences for people and property.
Black mold is a greenish black fungus that is most commonly found in flood-damaged buildings. It was a big problem after Hurricane Irma in SW Florida. Black mold produces mycotoxins that are associated with some serious health problems. An unresolved mold infestation can produce catastrophic damage to a property, greatly reducing its value and making it almost impossible to sell in a retail market.
Black mold is more common in contaminated runoff water from storms and sewage backups but it can also grow in clean stagnant water which has penetrated flooring, drywall, baseboards and other building structures.
Like other types of mold, black mold produces spores and grows rapidly from spores in a dark, moist, humid environment with poor ventilation. Mold spores can be distributed through HVAC systems and through contamination from personal property in a moldy environment.
Within 48-72 hours after a flood or other improperly contained water damage event, a substantial mold problem can start and spread. One square inch of mold can hold 10 million spores. Minor visible mold on the outside of drywall may be several times greater on the inside of a wall cavity where it grows much more rapidly.
Young children, the elderly and those with allergies, asthma and chronic respiration infections are more prone to illness due to the myotoxins in black mold. Common symptoms of mold-related health problems include shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, eye irritation, nose and throat irritation, and headaches. Any mold when present in large enough quantities is also capable of causing illness.
Definitive mold testing and analysis by an accredited ACAC certified indoor environmentalist company is the only way to accurately determine the type, location and extent of mold. These 3rd party unbiased companies also make recommendations about mold remediation. There is an additional expense for this testing which may or may not be covered by insurance.
Whether it is black mold or any other mold infestation, the most important way to minimize damage, costs, health risks, and stress is through a rapid and an appropriate response.
Whether it is black mold or not, If you find mold growing on ceilings, walls, baseboards or furnishings or notice a musty odor, it is likely that you have a mold problem that should be evaluated by professionals.
Whether it is black mold or another mold infestation, the mold remediation process and costs are the same. Mold remediation is a multi-step process performed by certified professionals. The process includes:
- identifying and eliminating the mold source
- preventing the spread of mold spores
- decontaminating affected building structures and personal property
- removing the mold and
- restoring the property to its pre-loss condition.
Costs are based on the extent and location of damage and the scope of cleanup that is required. Full restoration services at an additional cost include specialized cleaning as well as repairs, and replacement of building structures, flooring, and other materials and appliances removed and discarded.
If you are in the Southwest Florida area, keep in mind that Armstrong Water Mold Cleanup & Restorations is a specialty full service Florida water damage general contractor you can depend on for your water damage, mold remediation and total restoration of your property. We are a specialist in residential mold repairs.
We are one of only a few companies trusted and recommended by leading homeowners insurance companies because we follow IICRC standards that assure safe and appropriate practices without overcharging for unnecessary and costly demolition and restoration.
Armstrong helps people with water and mold damage to get through one of their most difficult challenges with a minimum expense and disruption to their life. We truly take the burden off you and put it on us. We offer one-stop total peace of mind service – the most complete, comprehensive 24/7 customer service in the area today.
We are reachable 24/7 to inspect and solve water damage and mold problems. The mold inspection and estimate are free. Call 239-541-4200 or contact us at ArmstrongWaterMoldCleanup.com
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