Ten Tips to Avoid Structural Mold from Flooding

by | CIRS, ISEAI

Lee Ann Billings on the Facebook group: Texas Indoor Mold Hurricane and Flood Aftermath

National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors www.NORMI.org

Flooding area residents must be proactive, act quickly, and use proper personal protection equipment when implementing the following ten steps: 

1. Remove any standing water using a pump or a wet vac. If the water damage is from a broken pipe, be sure to turn off the water supply. 

2. Remove wet carpets, rugs, draperies and personal belongings. Clear mud and debris from floors and foundation walls to allow the subflooring and foundation to dry. 

3. Remove and discard water-saturated sheetrock and insulation 18 inches above the highest watermark to increase structural drying. Remove water-damaged flexible ductwork and water-damaged insulation around metal ductwork. 

4. Remove all mold growth on remaining structural building materials by mechanical means or complete removal if necessary. The easiest and most effective way to initially clean mold from structural building materials is to use a commercial wet/dry HEPA vacuum, followed by wiping, scrubbing, scrapping or sanding for complete removal. 

5. Don’t use bleach to clean mold. Bleach is an effective sanitizer but it will not remove mold at its “root”. The mold will look like it’s gone but it is not; it will only grow back. 

6. Use sanitizers on any portion of the structure contaminated by sewage or flood waters. 

7. Dry the structure out as quickly as possible as structural mold begins to form in the first 24-48 hours. As soon as the above removal steps are completed, turn up the heat, circulate the air with fans, and use a dehumidifier to keep the indoor humidity below 50 percent. Hot, dry air dries building materials faster than cold moist air. If there’s no electricity, open windows and doors to get air moving to speed up the drying process, weather permitting. 

8. Check the attic as undetected roof leaks can later cause structural mold problems. 

9. Inspect windows on the outside of the structure, checking for damaged caulking and seals that could lead to future water leaks. 

10. Don’t seal it up until it’s dry. Siding, sheetrock, and flooring repairs should be done only after the substrates are completely dry. Confirm moisture content by using a moisture meter. 

For more information on water damage and flood resources, please see www.Flood.NORMI.org, www.NORMIProETF.org or to locate a certified mold inspector or remediator in your area, visit www.NORMIPro.com or call 1.877.251.2296. 

Dr. Raymond Oenbrink
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