The Hidden Dangers of Water Damage
When flash flooding occurs and our residences and buildings are inundated by a deluge, water usually disappears shortly after and everything begins to dry. It looks fine on the outside and things appear to have returned to normal. The problem is not what you can see, but rather what you can’t! Water damage can have a rapid impact on properties, and the longer-term issues can be extremely serious.
Following a flood event, water will generally settle in the lowest-lying areas of the property, and after throwing around some towels or cloths around, you’ll soon notice it starts to feel dry. But under the plaster, behind the skirting boards, and in the framework, the water is still present. The conditions on the outside have airflow and the ability to dry, but in these other confined and closed areas, the water is making the building materials extremely sodden, and the environment is now perfect for mould to start to grow.
The Impact of Summer Storms
When summer storms hit, they hit quickly, they dump significant volumes of water, then everything dries up, or does it? In these hidden locations, we now have damp, closed, dark spaces with ambient conditions that is super-charging mould growing capacity. Unfortunately, you often won’t see it.
Signs of Water Damage
If you’ve recently experienced a flooding event, we recommend that you conduct your own preliminary inspection to avoid this water ingress becoming an enormous issue later. If you notice any of the following, call Scaada today to have an immediate inspection:
- Is there a musty smell in areas that became wet?
- Is there evidence of water staining?
- Does the skirting board or wall feel much colder than the nearby areas?
- Is there repeated dampness in your carpet?
- Can you see mould starting to grow?
The Importance of Water Damage Assessments
If any of these things occur, you may have an issue that needs remediation. Ignoring the problem can cause detrimental structural impacts, aesthetic issues, but more importantly, occupational health and safety implications for those living or working around the impacted area.
Comprehensive Water Damage Assessments
Conducting thorough water damage assessments is crucial to identifying the extent of the damage and implementing the necessary remediation measures. This involves inspecting both visible and hidden areas for signs of water damage, moisture, and mould growth. Professional assessments ensure that no stone is left unturned, providing peace of mind and safeguarding the structural integrity and health of the property.
Preventing Long-Term Issues
Effective water damage assessments can prevent long-term issues by addressing water infiltration and dampness promptly. This includes ensuring proper ventilation, repairing leaks, and using dehumidifiers to maintain optimal indoor humidity levels. Early detection and intervention can save property owners from costly repairs and potential health risks associated with mould exposure.
The Role of Mould in Water Damage
Mould thrives in damp, dark, and confined spaces, making water-damaged areas an ideal breeding ground. The presence of mould can lead to serious health issues, including respiratory problems, allergies, and skin irritation. Regular mould inspections and assessments are essential to detect and eliminate mould growth, protecting the well-being of occupants and maintaining a healthy indoor environment.
Mould Exposure Testing
Mould exposure testing is an important aspect of water damage assessments, as it helps determine the extent of mould contamination and the potential health risks. This involves collecting air and surface samples from various areas of the property and analysing them in a laboratory to identify mould species and concentrations. The results guide the remediation process and ensure a thorough and effective cleanup.
Creating a Mould Inspection Report
A comprehensive mould inspection report is a vital document that outlines the findings of the assessment, including areas of concern, mould species identified, and recommended remediation measures. This report provides property owners with a clear understanding of the situation and a roadmap for addressing the issue. It also serves as a valuable record for future reference and potential real estate transactions.
Mould Air Quality Testing
Mould air quality testing is an essential component of water damage assessments, as it measures the concentration of mould spores in the indoor air. High levels of airborne mould spores can indicate a hidden mould problem and pose significant health risks. Regular air quality testing helps maintain a safe and healthy indoor environment, ensuring the well-being of occupants.
Airborne Mould Testing Techniques
Airborne mould testing involves using specialised equipment to collect air samples from different areas of the property. These samples are then analysed in a laboratory to identify mould species and concentrations. Advanced testing techniques, such as spore traps and bioaerosol sampling, provide accurate and reliable results, guiding the remediation process and ensuring effective mould control.
Conclusion
Water damage can have a significant impact on properties, often leading to hidden and long-term issues. Conducting thorough water damage assessments, including mould testing and air quality analysis, is essential to address these issues promptly and effectively. By identifying and remediating water damage early, property owners can protect the structural integrity of their buildings, maintain a healthy indoor environment, and prevent costly repairs in the future.
If you notice any signs of water damage or suspect mould growth, contact Scaada for immediate inspection, testing and assessment. We’ll work with you to take the necessary steps to safeguard your property and health.
