How Quickly Can Mold Grow After a Flooding Event?

7/24/2019 (Permalink)

Broken pipe causes mold damage in Ellisville, MO

Why Mold Is So Opportunistic?

If your building in Ellisville, MO, is flooded in some manner, water damage is a major concern. Whether the flooding is due to severe weather conditions, damaged water or heating pipes indoors, a leaking roof or from another cause, there can be serious consequences. Mold can grow following a flooding event and can quickly spread. Mold is a type of fungus that is well-suited to take advantage of damp areas inside buildings. Below are the reasons why mold is so opportunistic following a flooding event indoors.

1. Mold Growth Can Be Rapid

It can take as little as 24 to 48 hours for mold to begin growing on a water-damaged surface. This rapid growth rate may leave very little time to clean up the water before mold takes hold.

2. Mold Does Not Discriminate

Mold is a very hardy fungus that can grow on nearly any damp surface. There does not need to be a large flood to allow mold to grow. Even something as simple as a slow leak from a pipe that causes minor water damage nearby can generate enough moisture to support mold.

3. Mold Needs Very Little to Survive

Mold requires moisture, and very little else, to grow and thrive. Because it is so resilient, it is very easy for it to begin growing in areas where it is not expected. Many people believe a serious flood must occur inside a building for mold to appear, but that is not true. This is why mold prevention is key to keeping the fungus from flourishing.

Any level of flooding or water infiltration inside a building is enough to cause concern regarding mold, whether it is a very small leak or a large flood. Hiring the services of mold remediation specialists to help survey the damage and clean up the mess may be a good option. Keep in mind that any time water damage occurs, mold can soon follow.