It is a pretty large task to properly restore your home in Anchorage or the Mat Su Valley after water damage. We at TCM Restoration know that water extraction, drying, and replacing or repairing damaged items all have to be taken care of, and on top of all of that there is a potentially health-threatening problem that also has to be addressed when any form of water damage occurs – Mold.
What is Mold?
Mold found in homes can be a very dangerous and costly problem. Molds are fungi that thrive in warm, damp, dark, and humid conditions. There are many different species of mold that can be found both inside and outside. The most dangerous form of mold found in homes is stachybotrys chartarum, or black mold. This type of mold is found in areas that stay damp (like air conditioning pipes and ducts) and in areas that have had water damage. If left untreated, mold can become extremely hazardous, and reproduces and spreads very quickly.
Dangers of Mold
Mold reproduces by spores that are invisible to the naked eye. Mold spores need three things to grow: nutrients (food source), moisture, and time. Food sources for indoor mold include wood, drywall, and even dust. The moisture for mold to grow indoors often comes from water damage such as leaks or floods. Mold growth can begin within 24 hours, so timing is critical in water damage restoration. If mold spores are inhaled or ingested, they can cause a variety of dangerous health symptoms. Respiratory problems are the most common symptoms of mold exposure. Chronic coughing, sneezing, rashes, fatigue, headaches, and irritation to the eyes and mucous membranes of the nose and throat, along with sinus infections, shortness of breath, and allergic reactions can all occur as a result of mold exposure. Since mold spores travel through the air, the air quality throughout the entire house is at risk following water damage. With the proper equipment and prompt action, the growth of dangerous molds is significantly reduced following water damage.
The best way to ensure mold growth does not become an issue after water damage is to call the professionals. At TCM Restoration and Cleaning, we take care of your water damage from start to finish. Our water damage restoration services include:
- Protecting your belongings and furnishings
- Extracting water
- Disengaging carpet
- Removing carpet padding
- Treating carpet and flooring with mildewcide
- Drying and restoring affected contents
- Installing air-movers and dehumidifiers
- Daily monitoring of the drying process
- Re-installing pad and carpet, and replacing furniture and doors
- Repairing ceilings and drywall
- Painting and finishing
When water damage occurs, even a few hours can make a difference in not only mitigating damage to belongings, but also in reducing the risk of mold growth and spread. We are available 24/7 to begin the water damage restoration process. We will be able to thoroughly remove all moisture, eliminating the risk of mold, and return your home to its pre-loss condition in a timely manner. If you find yourself dealing with water damage in Anchorage or the Mat Su Valley, let the team at TCM take care of you and restore your home and belongings.
