How to Remove Mold After Flood Damage

According to the Weather Channel, mold growth in homes can have numerous health consequences such as dizziness, respiratory problems, headaches, allergies and memory loss. Because of these health concerns, it is essential to remove mold after a flood. Mold spores need only 12 hours to germinate and spread throughout the house. Homeowners can have a major mold problem without quick removal.

Pry bar
Utility knife
Bleach
Bucket
Brush
Borate-based detergent
Fan
HEPA vacuum
Dehumidifier

Instructions

- 1
  Throw away drywall, papers, wallpaper, food that has touched flood waters and refrigerated and frozen foods. Remove everything from each room to take out carpet padding.
- 2
  Lift up the carpet from one corner of the room with a pry bar. Roll the carpet up and move to another area of the home. Cut up the carpet padding in 4-foot pieces for easy removal.
- 3
  Dilute 1/4 cup of bleach per 1 gallon of water. Scrub subfloors, walls, countertops and cabinets with a brush.
- 4
  Apply a borate-based detergent to all surface areas and allow to dry. Borate prevents mold from germinating. Place a fan in the room and open windows if it's sunny outside to assist in drying.
- 5
  Unroll the carpeting and vacuum with HEPA machine. Spend at least one minute per square foot of carpet space. Pour water from HEPA vacuum down an outside drain.
- 6
  Place a dehumidifier in the room and keep it on for a week.

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