Water damage in properties is more common than you think. It can cause huge problems, from property destruction to the health risks associated with mold growth, such as allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and other respiratory issues.
When water accumulates in damp places, mold can likely form in as little as 24 to 48 hours. Areas with poor ventilation can easily become breeding grounds for mold.
Mold is a fungus that grows slowly from water and can cause significant damage to structures if left unchecked. Fortunately, you can take steps to prevent water from turning into mold, so let’s dive into what our experts at Mold Remediation suggest to avoid further water and mold damage.
Can Water Turn Into Mold?
The nature of mold is to assimilate and spread, so it’s easy for the fungus to invade from surface to surface. It only needs three components for mold to grow: moisture, oxygen, and organic matter.
Water is one of the favorite places of mold since the conditions are perfect for quickly creating large colonies. If mold can find a damp place in water to settle, it can grow and become dangerous in as few as two days.
Damp spots after water damage are a perfect environment for mold to grow. Therefore, it is important to identify and call mold remediation experts to address the problem.
How Long Does It Take Before Water Turns Into Mold?
For water to start becoming mold, there are two variables to consider: temperature and air humidity.
If the environment has a temperature higher than 60°F and a humidity of over 70%, mold can spread in less than 48 hours.
But not all mold can grow in the same conditions. Some species can only exist in temperatures below 40°F but can still cause significant damage if left unattended.
Seasonality is also an important factor when it comes to mold growth. During the summer, warm temperatures can make mold grow in as little as two days. While in the cold months of winter, it can take up to three days.
How to Prevent Water from Turning into Mold
1. Control Humidity Levels
The most effective way to prevent mold growth is to control humidity levels on your property. To do this, you should use a dehumidifier or an air conditioner. These machines work by removing moisture from the air and keeping it comfortable.
If you live in an area where temperatures stay high for extended periods, it’s best to invest in dehumidifiers and air conditioners, as they will work together to keep humidity levels low.
Additionally, ensure that any standing water around your property is cleared quickly. Even small amounts of standing water can contribute significantly to mold growth.
2. Clean & Maintain Regularly
Keeping your spaces clean is also key in preventing mold growth. This means regularly dusting surfaces and vacuuming carpets and rugs.
Check for any signs of water leakage, such as discolored walls or floors; these could indicate potential mold growth.
Basements and bathrooms are prime real estate for mold growth, so it’s important to conduct a mold inspection in these places.
Additionally, if you notice any leaks coming from pipes, get them fixed immediately, so the leaking water causes no further damage.
3. De-Cluttering Your Home & Office
Finally, minimizing the amount of clutter is important since this can serve as a breeding ground for mold.
Keeping all furniture above the ground can help you prevent fungal growth on wooden surfaces and limit the amount of moisture in the air.
Another thing to remember is that cardboard boxes tend to collect moisture and foster mold growth if they are stored for too long, so it’s best to avoid them.
Trust Mold Remediation to Maintain Mold-Free Spaces
Water can turn into mold in just a few days, causing serious damage to your property. But you can trust Mold Remediation of Orlando to avoid mishaps and keep your space mold-free.
Our experts can help you detect and identify mold growth in your home or office and provide professional expertise and advice on preventing mold from forming.
Don’t let mold take over your life, and contact us today to keep your space safe from mold growth.