As a mold remediation and water damage restoration company here in Clearwater, we’ve witnessed firsthand the devastation hurricanes cause our community.
The aftermath of these storms can leave homeowners grappling with water damage and mold/mildew growth.
It’s heartbreaking to see and it’s why were sharing some proactive measures that can be taken to better prep your home for future hurricanes and minimize the risk of mold and mildew growth.
The single most important thing to keep in mind and work for is to ensure your home is dry and stays dry. Of course this is much easier said than done, but it’s also helpful to have as a guiding goal.
The 3 most common sources of water we have to account for in Florida are:
- Water from inside of our homes — broken pipes, leaking faucets, overflowing toilets, splashy bathing. When water spills in any of these ways, you want to get it mopped and dried up as fast as possible. Most importantly, you also want to guess or estimate the total # of gallons that might have spilled, because all of that water went somewhere. Water takes the path of the least resistance, and often than path is into your carpet, under your floorboards, or into your walls. If you think 50 gallons spilled in total, then 50 gallons is about how much you should be mopping/vacuuming up. We have teams and tools that can help you do that, and various devices that can not only help us locate the lost water, but also to ensure it’s all been fully and completely dried up. Mold needs so little moisture to grow, that it’s important to ensure that “dry to the eye” is actually dry.
- Water from outside of our homes — rains, storms, run off water, sprinklers hitting the house, etc. When it rains, take a moment to see how your house is responding to the water. Where is it all going? Does it pool up around the base of your walls, or is it directed as far away from your home as possible? Sprinklers hitting your home can cause enough water to seep into your crawlspace and cause a mold problem.
- Catastrophic weather events — Hurricanes, tropical storms, tornadoes. This last category can cause the worst of both 1 and 2 above, and the best we can do is prepare for it as well as possible. A tip that can help: Watch your home during regular rains to see what you can do to better prep for a hurricane. If water build up is a problem during regular rain, it’s going to be one during a hurricane. Of course this won’t prevent all disasters or protect every home in a flood zone, but it’ll make it much easier for you to think with and prepare for the worst of our local weather. If you think your home could be better prepped for hurricane season, the best time to get that work done is in the off-season. Hurricane season for us in Florida is June 1 through November 30, with a peak in mid September and the worst of the season historically being from mid-August through mid-October. That makes the six months from December through May the best time to prepare your home for a hurricane.
Pre-Storm Preparation
1. Inspect and Repair Your Roof
A strong and well-maintained roof is a first line of defense against water intrusion. Annual inspections for missing shingles, cracks, and other signs of wear and tear are worthwhile and help you deal with problems before hurricane season.
2. Seal Windows and Doors
Weather stripping and caulk help close door and window gaps that let water seep in. Storm shutters or impact-resistant windows add additional protection.
3. Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters can lead to water pooling around your home’s foundation, increasing the risk of water damage. Clean gutters and downspouts that send water far away from your home and foundation are worth investing in. Light rains can help you spot problems that will exacerbate come hurricane season.
4. Store Important Documents and Valuables Safely
Keep important documents and valuables in waterproof containers or store them in a safe and elevated location.
After a Storm
1. Assess and Document Damage
Once it’s safe to return home, carefully assess and document any damage with plenty of photos/videos and notes for insurance purposes. This can expedite any claims process you may have to go through.
2. Remove Standing Water Immediately
Standing water is a breeding ground for mold. Use pumps, wet vacuums, or buckets to remove standing water as quickly as possible. Ensure that the area is thoroughly dried to prevent mold growth.
3. Ventilate and Dehumidify
Proper ventilation is crucial in preventing mold. Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate. Use fans and dehumidifiers to reduce humidity levels inside your home. Aim to keep indoor humidity below 60%.
4. Dispose of Water-Damaged Materials
Remove and discard any water-damaged materials, such as carpets, drywall, and insulation. These materials can harbor mold spores and contribute to further growth. Be sure to wear protective gear, such as gloves and masks, when handling these items.
5. Clean and Disinfect Surfaces
Thoroughly clean and disinfect all surfaces that have come into contact with water. Use a mixture of water and detergent to scrub surfaces, followed by a disinfectant to kill any remaining mold spores.
6. Monitor for Mold Growth
Even after taking all necessary precautions, it’s important to monitor your home for signs of mold growth. Look for visible mold, musty odors, or any health symptoms that may indicate mold presence. If you suspect mold, contact a professional remediation company immediately.
We’re Here to Help. Call for a Free Environmental Consultation.
At Mold Solutions, we understand the emotional and physical toll caused by hurricanes.
These proactive steps can help you prepare your home before a storm as well as reduce the amount of damage after one.
Our team is local, licensed and insured and is here to support you every step of the way
Stay safe, Clearwater. Together we can weather any storm.
