Removing Odors After Water Damage

6/12/2018 (Permalink)

There is no need to live with the offensive odor of mildew and mold growth.

Water damage to your building in Johnson City, TN, can be caused by leaky pipes, torrential rains, or floodwaters. The damage may also be limited to one room or to an entire floor as the water seeps into walls or stands 18 inches deep. No matter how much water damages the structure, the problem the receding water leaves behind usually still includes mold growth and its horrible odor.

Offensive Odor

The offensive smell that lingers after the flood is probably due to one or more of the following situations:

• Mold colonies
• Mildew growth
• Bacteria development

The problem usually needs to be addressed to eliminate the smell.

Injured Items

Although cleaning one room with moldy items by tossing them out may eliminate the smell and possible contamination in the general area, it may not be enough to contain mold and its odor. Mold remediation experts suggest throwing out anything that shows any sign of mildew or mold growth, especially those objects that have been standing in flood water for longer than 24 hours. Additionally, items effected by sewage loss should be discarded.

Dangerous Dampness

Mold thrives in dark, damp places. Behind wet walls, under moist flooring, and below soggy floorboards can be perfect breeding grounds for thriving mold colonies. To remove the mold and its offensive odor the water problems such as trickles, tiny leaks, and damp spots need to be removed in the affected area.

Constant Cleaning

As the mold is washed from damaged surfaces, the chance of spores dispersing to other areas is often great. That is why there can be constant cleaning to remove offensive odors after water damage. The key is generally disinfecting, deodorizing, and air flow on a regular basis. Dehumidifiers can also be used if air flow is a problem because of weather conditions.

Successful Elimination

There is no need to live with the offensive odor of mildew and mold growth. Removing wet items, drying out damp areas, and cleaning contaminated surfaces can help eliminate the smell. With regular inspections of previously infected areas, the problem can often be kept under control. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROwashingtoncountytn.com/.