Avoid Lingering Odors After the Flood

10/26/2019 (Permalink)

Flooded office in Liberty, OK

After flooding in Liberty, OK, business owners want their properties back in shape as soon as possible. Even after the water subsides and the visual cleanup has happened, flood water damage can leave some hidden problems, such as mold, that may only present themselves as an odor.

Floods Aren’t Just Regular Water

Unless flooding has occurred from a main water pipe with clean water, there’s a high probability that the water contains sewage loss and other bacteria. Cleaning up this type of water damage requires more than a simple wipe down. A professional restoration company has the expertise to know where to look and how to clean up damage that could be overlooked. Places that can retain odors or result in mold growth include:

• Air – The air itself contains mold spores that can easily spread to unaffected areas if not properly eradicated.
  
• Furniture – Mold and bacteria love porous materials, especially fabric and wood. After a flooding, identifying and removing items that have come in contact with flood waters is important. After drying them out, the will need to be thoroughly cleaned.
  
• Floors and Walls – Even if it doesn’t seem like the water reached a section of carpet or tiles or only went up an inch on the wall, water can sneakily travel without being noticed. Depending on the damage, sections may need to be replaced to completely ensure the damage doesn’t spread.
  
  

Why Mold Lingers

Mold growth happens fast and can be easy to visually overlook though easy to smell. Within 48 hours of flooding, mold spores can take root and begin to form. If their cycle goes unchecked, new mold spores will spread to unaffected areas and create new patches of growth. If this happens behind drywall, it may not be noticeable until the waste gases mold produces permeate your sense of smell with its musky, earthy odor.
If that odor persists, it’s likely that mold growth is still happening after the cleanup. Getting the right help from the beginning can ensure your flood experience doesn’t linger.