Water Damage & Mold Management

Molds are found almost everywhere in our environment, both outdoors and indoors. Their spores float continually in the air we breathe. Molds can grow on just about any substance, as long as moisture and oxygen are available. Mold growth may occur when excessive moisture accumulates in buildings or on building materials including carpet, ceiling tile, insulation, paper, wallboard, wood, surfaces behind wallpaper, or in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.

If you observe water damage or mold growth, please submit an online work order request  here so our Facility Services team can respond and assist you.

 

Health Effects of Mold Exposure

People at the greatest risk of health effects from mold are individuals with allergies, asthma, sinusitis, other lung diseases, and individuals with a weakened immune system. Health effects from mold exposure include:

  • Sneezing
  • Runny nose
  • Eye irritation
  • Cough and congestion
  • Aggravation of asthma
  • Dermatitis (skin rash)

Recognizing Mold

Conditions for increased risk of mold are:

  • Temperatures above 70
  • High humidity
  • Water damage
  • Dampness

Mold will often start out as small colored spots and left untreated will appear as colored woolly mates. Mold will often produce a foul, musty, earthy smell. Efflorescence can often be confused for mold.

Efflorescence is moisture that evaporates into salt deposits. Efflorescence will turn into a powdery substance, while mold will not. Efflorescence is white, yellow, or brown, while mold can be any color.

Preventing Mold Growth

  • Remove excess moisture with a wet-dry vacuum and dry out the space or building as quickly as possible.
  • Use carpet fans or dehumidifiers to assist in drying operations. If household dehumidifiers are not properly maintained they can become breeding grounds for mold.
  • Clean wet surfaces with detergent and water.
  • Discard all water damaged materials.
  • Discard all porous materials that have been wet for more than 48 hours.

General Mold Cleanup Tips

  • Identify and correct moisture problem.
  • Make sure working area is well ventilated.
  • Discard mold damaged materials in plastic bags.
  • Clean we items and surfaces with detergent and water.
  • Use carpet fans and dehumidifiers to dry area.
  • Disinfect cleaned surfaces with 1/4 to 1 1/2 cup household bleach in 1 gallon of water. CAUTION: Do not mix bleach with cleaning products that contain ammonia.
  • Use an N95 respirator when cleaning.
  • Use hand and eye protection