In the last several years there has been an increase in storms and coverage of storms. In the mid-Atlantic region, especially Maryland, the most destructive hurricane was actually almost one hundred years ago. The Chesapeake-Potomac hurricane attacked the Chesapeake Bay. While Maryland usually doesn’t receive the devastation incurred by states that dealt with hurricanes like Katrina, Andrew, and Sandy, being surrounded by water makes the Baltimore area prone to flooding and other violent storm effects. Most people work remarkably hard in order to build a home or create a sufficient place to rest their head at night. Floods, hurricanes, landslides, tropical storms are all annoying at a minimum and catastrophic at their worst. While minor leaks may cause warped wood or stains, the damage can reach dangerous levels if the water or moisture causes building structural damage or if mold begins to grow and spread. Porous materials, along with the moisture, can lead to the colonization of mold spores. You may smell a musty odor in some basements, especially older homes. Quite often that can be mildew or mold. Mold is fungi, and if remediated or removed, the source needs to be fixed. Otherwise it will continue to happen. And if the mold spreads enough, it may be necessary to demolish the finished basement to eradicate behind all walls. It is always better to address mold spores as early as possible. Air quality is remarkably important in keeping residents healthy. In fact, if someone has a compromised immune system or is allergic to mold, there may be major negative implications for their health. Structural damage is a serious concern when discussing water damage. There aren’t many elements that destroy virtually every type of material over time. Water is certainly one of them. Whether wood, metal, or concrete, water will eventually win out, destroying the strength and appearance of almost anything, if left unchecked. This is an issue construction companies and engineers need to address all the time. Similarly, the foundation is remarkably important to your home. Many foundations are made with concrete and cracks can be a problem. Floors, walls, ceilings, doors, and windows need to be inspected and sometimes replaced for safety and to ensure they are not letting moisture in. Windows can certainly be a culprit. Additionally, electrical safety measures need to be adhered to when dealing with structural damage caused by water. Carpets can easily suffer from water stains. There are technologies and cleaning techniques that need to be employed to not only fix the appearance of the carpet, but to remove the moisture below the carpet as well. Carpet padding can be the perfect spot for mold to grow. There are times where the carpet water damage may have originated inside the home. In this scenario, shutting off the water source is imperative. What kinds of flood solutions or storm damage remedies are out there? French drain waterproofing is one process that can help. But if the damage is done, mold removal or mold remediation might be necessary. It’s a very good idea to connect with the most experienced mold removal company that has an impeccable reputation in order to remove the mold, inspect the structure, even recommend and strategically place de-humidifiers. An efficient HVAC system and HEPA filter will help with air filtration as well. Your flood solution company should provide a comprehensive mold inspection report. Of course the type of moisture that causes the damage matters as well. “Black water” or sewage will have an entirely different cleanup process than a small pipe leak. It is also beneficial to work with a mold removal company that can assist in the navigation of insurance companies and policies.

Are you wondering what steps a remediation company takes to fight mold in your home or office? Read the blog to find out or contact us to learn more!