Why Does Mold Grow After a Hurricane?

A storm pushes water into every crack and crevice of your home. Floodwater soaks into drywall, wood studs, insulation, and carpet padding. Even after you remove standing water, these materials stay damp for days or weeks.

Mold spores float in the air everywhere, indoors and out. When they land on a wet surface with organic material, they germinate and spread. The longer materials stay wet, the more mold you will see. That is why mold appears so quickly after a storm.

Mold spores begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours of a surface getting wet. In a warm, humid environment, colonies can become visible in just a few days. By the time you notice a musty smell, mold is already spreading.

The speed depends on temperature, humidity, and how porous the material is. Porous items like drywall and fabric grow mold faster than nonporous surfaces like glass or metal. Acting quickly to dry your home is the right way to slow it down.

Start by removing standing water and wet items that cannot be saved, like soaked carpets and drywall. Open windows and use fans to increase airflow. Run a dehumidifier to pull moisture from the air. The goal is to dry materials as fast as possible.

If you live in Detroit, remember that the humid continental climate can slow drying, so be extra patient. For hidden moisture in walls and flooring, local water damage pros use moisture meters to find wet spots. They also bring industrial dehumidifiers and air movers to dry the structure thoroughly.

• Wear gloves and a mask when handling moldy materials.
• Throw away porous items that cannot be washed and dried.
• Clean hard surfaces with soap and water, then dry them fully.
• Keep humidity indoors below 50 percent if possible.
• Check hidden areas like behind appliances and under sinks.
• Do not paint or seal over mold without cleaning it first.