More often than not, the reason property owners require mold removal in Ottawa is because of an incident like a flood, leak, or pipe burst. Water damage in Ottawa is a catalyst for mold infestations, which wreak additional havoc on properties already affected by excess moisture. Preventing the onset of a mold infestation is critical for protecting your building materials as well as your health and the other occupants of the building. Preventing mold after water damage is a tricky task, as moisture acts as a magnet toward mold spores. The best way to prevent an infestation is to work with a restoration company in Ottawa, like Canada’s Restoration Services. Our IICRC-certified team is experienced in both water damage remediation and mold removal, allowing us to provide a comprehensive restoration service.
Stopping water damage from attracting mold can substantially reduce restoration costs and improve indoor air quality. Here’s what you can do to mitigate mold after a flood or leak.
Stop Water Source
The first and most important step in preventing mold after water damage is to identify and stop the source of the moisture. Whether it’s a broken pipe, roof leak, sewage backup, or flooding, cutting off the water flow quickly can limit how far the damage spreads. Until the water source is shut off, no mitigation efforts will be fully effective. For property owners dealing with water damage in Ottawa, knowing where your main shut-off valves are or a trusted water damage expert like the specialists at Canada’s Restoration Services can make all the difference in minimizing both water damage and the risk of mold.
Act Fast: Call Your Restoration Company
Mold can begin to grow in as little as 24 to 48 hours following water exposure. Calling in a professional restoration company right away allows for immediate action. Canada’s Restoration Services offers 24/7 response for urgent water damage in Ottawa, arriving quickly to assess, contain, and begin the restoration process. Our team is IICRC-certified and experienced in both mold and water damage remediation in Ottawa, allowing us to ensure that your space is treated thoroughly from the very beginning to reduce long-term risks. Acting quickly is one of the best defences you have against a full-blown mold infestation, and it can minimize the extent to which water damage in Ottawa can impact your building materials and personal belongings.
Begin the Drying Process
Moisture is the problem when it comes to water damage or flooding and mold. After the water source is contained, drying must begin immediately. All standing water should be extracted from floors, carpets, and affected materials using high-powered pumps or vacuums. Industrial-grade air movers and drying fans are then used to circulate air and draw moisture from walls, flooring, and furniture. The more prolonged moisture lingers, the more likely it is that spores already in the air will settle and begin colonizing wet surfaces. Moisture trapped behind drywall, under floorboards, or within insulation can be especially problematic. Working with experienced remediation experts at Canada’s Restoration Services streamlines this process, as our teams are equipped with the right tools and expertise to facilitate the drying process and monitor its progress.
Conduct a Mold Inspection in Ottawa
Even if mold isn’t visible to you, its spores could still be in the air, or infestations can be multiplying beneath surfaces like walls and flooring. Scheduling a professional mold inspection in Ottawa can identify whether mold has already begun to grow or if conditions remain ideal for its development. Canada’s Restoration Services uses comprehensive visual inspections to determine the presence of mold and the extent of its spread. Early detection of any potential gives you more options for remediation and can help you avoid large-scale demolition or material removal down the line. This is especially important in less frequented areas of your property that are most affected by moisture. If our team identifies a problem, we can support you with reliable services from attic to basement mold removal in Ottawa.
Use a Dehumidifier
Mold thrives in high-humidity environments, which is why it’s so common in basements, bathrooms, and attics. After any water damage in Ottawa, using a dehumidifier can help regulate moisture levels in the air and reduce the likelihood of spore growth. Aim to keep indoor humidity below 50% to discourage mold. Commercial-grade dehumidifiers are typically more effective than consumer models and are often available through professional restoration companies. Keeping a household dehumidifier running can help you prevent less severe instances of mold that occur more naturally.
Replace Unsalvageable Building Materials
Not all materials can be saved after water exposure. Drywall, insulation, carpet, and ceiling tiles are highly porous and can absorb water quickly. If left untreated, these materials can become breeding grounds for mold. In cases where contamination or saturation is extensive, the best course of action is replacement. Canada’s Restoration Services will remove unsalvageable building materials safely and in accordance with industry standards, reducing the risk of mold growth and preparing the space for reconstruction. By being proactive about removal, you avoid giving mold a chance to develop and spread.
Keep Mold Out of Your Ottawa Property with Water Damage Restoration
Water damage in Ottawa can cause significant damage to homes, businesses, and other properties. Investing in water damage restoration can reduce your mold removal costs and greatly enhance your indoor air quality. For trusted IICRC-certified services, contact Canada’s Restoration Services.
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