Mold Treatment for a Flooded Basement

Dangers of Mold

• A necessary part of nature, molds break down dead organic matter such as foliage and plants. However, when allowed to grow indoors, mold causes problems. The tiny spores that molds use to reproduce, unseen by the human eye, float in the air.

  If those spores make their way into the human respiratory system, they can cause disease and aggravate allergy symptoms. That is why it is vital to follow certain procedures when cleaning a flooded basement.

On Your Own vs. Hire a Pro

• Cleaning and drying an area as large as a basement can easily overwhelm homeowners. When hiring a contractor for the task, be sure to check references, ask if the contractor has experience dealing with mold, and make sure they follow recommendations of the Environmental Protection Agency.

  Do not attempt the clean-up on your own if sewage or other contaminated water caused the damage, or if you have health concerns that might be aggravated by exposure.

Procedure

• It may not be possible to thoroughly clean some items that were soaked in the flood. If that is the case, throw these items away. However, items with sentimental value may be salvageable, so consider speaking with specialists if family heirlooms are affected.

  In order to prevent mold growth on items in a flooded basement, it is imperative to start drying them within 24 to 48 hours.

  Begin by scrubbing mold off of hard surfaces using detergent and water. Allow to dry completely.

  Drywall may appear to be drying well, but if it was wet for more than 24 hours, mold growth is likely already taking place behind the drywall and possibly in underlying wood. It is best to remove not only the area of the drywall that was wet, but also at least two feet beyond.

  Do not paint or caulk moldy surfaces. Clean up the mold and dry the surfaces before painting. Paint applied over moldy surfaces is likely to peel.

Protect Yourself

• Most hardware stores sell N-95 respirators, which are a great way to avoid breathing in mold or mold spores. The masks trap most of the mold spores and prevent them from entering. To avoid getting mold or mold spores in your eyes, wear goggles without ventilation holes. Wear gloves to avoid touching mold or moldy items with your bare hands.

Finishing Touches

• How can you determine whether you have thoroughly cleaned the flooded area?

  All visible mold should be gone and no moldy odor should remain. Inspect all cleaned areas to make sure there are no signs of water damage, being careful to look for signs of mold regrowth.