An article by the National Center for Biotechnology Information shows that 47% of residential buildings in the US have mold. With Orlando, FL, being hot and so humid, mold is a prevalent issue for many residents.
It may quickly become a health hazard and damage your property if you don’t remove it quickly. If you recently had water damage or noticed a musty smell, you may ask,’ How fast does mold grow?’ You may also need mold prevention tips to avoid future damage and save costs.
Continue reading to answer this question and get helpful tips to protect your health and investment.
How Fast Does Mold Grow?
Mold often grows in as little as 24 hours, but the speed of growth will depend on factors such as:
- The moisture level in a space
- The temperature
- The presence of organic matter
Environmental mold causes such as high humidity levels, water leaks, and poor ventilation often speed up mold infestations. In Central Florida, the warm, humid climate is a natural breeding ground for mold, especially during the rainy season.
If your Orlando property has a lot of moisture, mold will grow as tiny spores that float in the air. These spores will then attach to surfaces and multiply, so you may start to notice colonies within 48-72 hours. Flooding or excess moisture from storms and proximity to water bodies will also speed up mold growth.
What to Do if You Notice Mold in Your Orlando, FL Property
Once the colonies become visible, you should start indoor mold control measures to prevent further spread. Inspect the affected areas and take photos in case you need to send them to the property manager or insurance company.
After that, identify the source of moisture and determine how to fix it. Check under your skinks and behind appliances to determine if you have leaky pipes. Besides, inspect your ceiling and hire an expert to determine if you have a roof leak caused by heavy rain or storms.
The next measures to take should be as follows:
- Contact a mold inspection expert
- Consider mold remediation services
- Check if your insurance covers the damage
Get professional mold inspection services if the mold colony is extensive or if you smell it but can’t determine exactly where it is.
A certified mold inspector will thoroughly check the property to assess the degree of mold growth. They will also identify it in hidden areas and test it to determine if it’s toxic. Hiring a professional is the best way to ensure you handle the mold in compliance with safety standards.
Costs for mold removal and repairs can accumulate quickly, especially if it’s toxic and extensive. Check your insurance policy to see if it covers the inspection and removal. Your insurer may compensate for such expenses if the damage results from a sudden event like a storm or pipe burst.
The Process of Mold Remediation
After mold inspection Orlando FL, you need remediation services to make your space safer and avoid toxic exposure. The process involves cleaning and removing the mold and may sometimes include steps to prevent it from growing again.
A professional mold remediation expert in Orlando can help you with the following:
- Containment
- Mold removal
- Cleaning and disinfection
The expert will seal off the affected area for indoor mold control. After that, they may remove severely affected materials like carpets, insulation, and drywall and advise you on how to dispose of them.
The next step will be eliminating the mold with special cleaners such as:
- High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuum
- Antimicrobial treatments
- Fogging machine
HEPA vacuums will trap mold and prevent it from spreading during cleaning. The expert will then treat the space with antimicrobial cleaners to kill the remaining spores. Besides, they will use a fogging machine to disperse a fine mist of microbial agents in hard-to-reach areas.
How to Prevent Mold
Preventing mold is often more manageable and cost-effective than removal. Keeping your home or office dry and ventilated is vital to avoid structural damage and health concerns. Here are the mold prevention tips to apply:
- Fix leaks promptly
- Control indoor humidity levels
- Ensure proper air circulation
- Use mold-resistant materials
Water damage is a substantial cause of mold infestations, so you should always watch out for leaks. Inspect your bathtubs, water heaters, and sinks regularly to identify leaks in advance.
You should also properly seal windows and doors to prevent rainwater from seeping. Taking such measures allows you to reduce the moisture levels that mold needs to thrive.
CDC recommends maintaining the humidity level at 50% or below all the time. Investing in dehumidifiers is a good measure, especially in Florida, since humidity levels are high most times of the year.
Place the dehumidifiers in your basement and crawl spaces that may not have great air circulation and access to direct sunlight. You should also use vent fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove excess humidity when showering or cooking.
If you are building or renovating, it’s advisable to use mold-resistant materials in areas prone to high humidity. Such spaces include:
- The bathroom
- Kitchen
- Basement
- Laundry room
Use mold-resistant paint to prevent mold from holding onto your walls or ceilings. Moreover, consider mold-resistant drywall that doesn’t absorb moisture for additional protection.
Insulation materials like fiberglass and radiant barriers made from aluminum foil don’t retain moisture. Use them in areas like the basement or attic to prevent mold infestation in case of a leak or high humidity.
Blocked gutters can overflow, and the water will seep into your roof or foundation later. Clean these structures regularly to ensure they direct water away from your property and avoid mold growth.
Get Expert Help for Mold Issues
Mold grows fast in humid areas like Orlando, FL, so you must act quickly to protect your health and property. Always consult a mold remediation expert since they can help you remove spores with efficient tools and products and provide prevention tips.
At Elite Mold Services, we offer mold remediation and testing in Central Florida. Our experts will answer ‘How fast does mold grow?’ and help you take immediate action. They may also help you improve your indoor air quality and test for allergens. Contact us today for reliable mold services.