Water Damage and Preventing Mold in Florida

Water Damage in Florida

Water damage in the home can come from many different sources and they can be presented in many different ways. Damage to dwellings and items within them that is caused by water, is the most frequently filed claim by insurances. Every year an average 37 to 40% of homeowners will make a water damage claim in the U.S.  Florida is the second highest state for water damage claims in the U.S. with approximately 225, 222 according to NICB.

If you live in Florida, you are too familiar with the amount of rain endured across the state each year. Large amounts of rain can cause flooding and other problems such as leaky pipes can damage your home. Mold can start growing in 24 - 48 hours if water damage is left untreated.

Potential Causes of Water Damage

The primary causes of water damage include:

• Overflowing sinks, toilets, tubs, etc.
• Broken or leaky water heater system
• Burst or cracked water pipes
• Damage caused by cold, heat, wind, etc.
• Rain water from storm runoff
• Leaky roofs and canopies
• Local flooding and runoff water
• Water from neighboring sources or properties
•Storm damage allowing water to enter the home

 

After a flood or water leak your home may dry out, but there can still be problems left behind that are not visual. Damp areas can cause mold to grow.  Sometimes the damage is obvious as is the case with rotting wood under soaked carpet, and other times it may take a while before the full extent of the water damage is known. This is why it's important to have a mold inspection in Florida by a reputable company.

Prevent Mold and Mildew in Your Florida Home

When water damage occurs it is important to take action immediately in order to keep mold at bay and salvage whatever you can. As soon as you safely can enter the premise again start with drying things out with fans, opening windows and doors where possible. The less water left in the carpets, walls, and furniture, the less moisture there will be in the air and the less chance there is for mold growth.

Within as little as 24 hours, mold can begin to form; it is important to act right away to protect your home from mold. Mold is a major health concern and can make people very sick; especially children, seniors, and those with compromised immune systems. This is why having a mold inspection in Florida is such a big deal after your home has been damaged by water.  Even when you think there is no mold after water damage; there can be places it lurks under floor boards, in walls, or attic space.

How to Choose a Mold Removal Company

When searching for a mold specialist, it's important to choose a company that is licensed and insured. Reputable mold removal companies also will work with your insurance company directly. At Authorized Services we have been providing mold remediation in Florida for over 20 years. This is why we want to provide consumers the best information about mold removal and handling mold. There are many companies out there that have mold removal scams, so look for companies that are licensed, insured, and bonded. Never try to remove mold yourself because it can make you very sick. Professional mold specialists take extra precautions when removing mold and making sure it doesn't return.

 

What is the Difference Between Mold and Mildew in Florida?

Is it Mildew or Mold Growing in Your Florida Home?

Like two similar members of the same dysfunctional family, mold and mildew share some keen similarities: Both prefer to live in moist, warm areas that fuel their fungal growth and spread. They can attach themselves to a multitude of surfaces where they can grow- your food, your shower walls, your note paper, and even your home itself.

Mold and mildew both are two types of fungi that a homeowner never wants to see setting up residence. Despite their similarities, mold and mildew do have their difference in terms of size, color, and texture. The first step to mildew removal is to be able to identify so that is what we are going to do here.

Mildew basically is a surface fungus which is usually identified as a patch of soft fungal growth, usually grey or white in color that attaches itself to the surface of a moist area. Mildew is most often treated quite easily with a good general cleaner, a scrub brush, and a little bit of elbow grease.

Mold, however, can be black or green, is thicker in appearance, and is often present in larger quantities which tends to mean a larger fungal infestation. This type of fungus is often described as being fuzzy in appearance, especially when it is found on food, or slimy, especially when it is found in wet areas.

Being able to properly take care of a mold or mildew infestation requires being able to identify what you are dealing with so you can determine what the best course of action will be. Mold removal is usually bit harder than mildew removal but both can be made easier when you go about it the right way. Protect yourself and your family and do not let mold or mildew call your home theirs any longer!

As experts in mildew and mold removal in Sarasota, Clearwater, and all over Florida; we know the health issues that it can cause.  At Authorized Services, we care about our customers and want to provide important mold facts and information. Check back with us for more information about mold problems in Florida and solutions.