The short answer
Start Drying Right Away
Mold can start growing within a day or two after water damage, so speed matters. Begin by removing any standing water with a wet vacuum or mop. Open windows and doors to let air circulate, and set up fans to blow across wet surfaces.
Use a dehumidifier to pull moisture from the air, especially in closed rooms. Run it continuously until the area feels dry to the touch. If you have air conditioning, turn it on, as it also removes humidity. The goal is to get everything as dry as possible before mold takes hold.
- Remove soaked carpets, rugs, and padding
- Toss wet cardboard boxes and paper goods
- Wipe down hard surfaces with a disinfectant
- Pull up wet baseboards and trim
- Hang wet curtains and fabrics to dry outside
- Check hidden spots like under cabinets and behind appliances
Remove Porous Materials
Porous items like drywall, insulation, and upholstered furniture soak up water and are hard to dry completely. Once they stay wet, mold can grow inside them, even if the surface looks dry. In most cases, you need to cut out and replace those materials.
For wooden studs and beams, dry them thoroughly and check for mold. Non-porous surfaces like tile, metal, and glass can be cleaned and reused. When in doubt, it is safer to remove and replace than to risk hidden mold growth.
Clean and Disinfect Surfaces
After drying, clean all affected surfaces with a detergent and water solution. Then apply a disinfectant to kill any remaining mold spores. Use a store-bought mold cleaner or a mix of water and bleach, but never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaners.
Wear gloves, goggles, and a mask to protect yourself from dust and mold spores. Work in a well-ventilated area and take breaks if you feel unwell. If you have asthma or allergies, consider having someone else do the cleaning or ask a mold professional for help.
Know When to Call the Pros
If the water damage is extensive, such as from a flood or sewage backup, or if mold has already spread over a large area, professional help is wise. The pros have industrial-grade drying equipment and know how to safely remove mold without spreading spores.
They can also assess structural damage and help you decide what to keep and what to replace. For smaller issues, you can handle it yourself, but if you have health concerns or the problem keeps coming back, contact a water damage professional in your area.
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Call Now (559) 272-9793Frequently asked questions
How long does it take for mold to grow after water damage?
Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours if surfaces stay damp. That is why you need to begin drying and cleaning right away. The faster you dry things out, the less chance mold has to take hold.
Can I just paint over moldy drywall?
No, painting over mold does not kill it. The mold will continue to grow underneath and can eventually come through the paint. You need to remove the affected drywall and replace it after the underlying structure is dry and clean.
What if I smell mold but cannot see it?
A musty smell often means mold is growing in a hidden spot, like inside a wall or under flooring. Check areas that got wet and look for discoloration. If you cannot find the source, consider hiring a professional to do a mold inspection.
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