How Fast Does Mold Grow After a Water Leak?
Have you recently had a water leak or flood that resulted in water damage? If so, you should think about mold growth. In the presence of too much moisture, mold can start to proliferate indoors on surfaces like tile, drywall, and plywood. One of the main concerns homeowners have about mold is that it can cause major damage to buildings.
The Dangers of Mold
As mold starts to grow, it can break down wood and other organic materials, which results in structural and cosmetic damage. Exposure to certain species can be dangerous to your health. Common symptoms range from rashes, headaches, fatigue, allergic reactions, and other related respiratory problems. Proper moisture control is vital to preventing unwanted mold from growing and being detrimental to your home and health. If your home has recently suffered any form of water damage, take steps to prevent mold growth.
How Fast Does Mold Develop?
There are numerous factors that contribute to this such as:
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Presence of mold spores
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Types of surfaces affected
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Temperature and humidity
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The species of mold
Average Speed of Growth
As a general rule of thumb, mold can start to grow within 24 to 48 hours of water exposure. However, at this stage, the spores are not visible to the naked eye. So it typically takes approximately 18 – 21 days for the mold spores to start to colonize and be visible. Under favorable conditions, mold can start to grow within a few hours. That is why it’s so important to act quickly when you suffer a leak or flood. Furthermore, mold will release spores into the atmosphere as it starts to grow. It can eventually spread to other surfaces that have also been exposed to moisture.
If you would like to make an appointment with a professional water damage company please do not hesitate to contact FAF Enterprises at (678) 470-9763 now if you live in or around the Lilburn, GA region.