How to Prevent Mold Growth After Water Damage in Toronto
Toronto's July Flood Crisis: Homeowner Mistakes
In mid-July 2024, Toronto experienced heavy rain and strong storms, which caused extensive water damage to homes and businesses. Environment Canada reported that almost 100mm of rain fell in just a few hours, breaking daily records that went back to 1941.
Many homeowners rushed to fix flooding and water damage from the storm. However, most could not do it and called a water restoration company instead. Either being unable to find the right equipment or using it wrong was the main lesson for homeowners.
Homeowners wanted to save money by fixing water damage and floods themselves. However, they ended up with a bigger problem. They discovered mold growth because they used the wrong drying and cleaning equipment.
Homeowner Oversights: Lessons from the Flood
Underestimating the Risk of Basement Flooding
Many Toronto residents learned the hard way that their homes were more vulnerable than they realized. Basements, often used as living spaces or storage areas, became the main focus of property damage. The misconception that modern urban drainage systems could handle any amount of rainfall proved costly for many homeowners.
Poor Waterproofing and Drainage Solutions
In the aftermath, it became evident that many properties lacked proper waterproofing measures. Simple solutions like functioning gutters, downspouts directed away from foundations, and graded landscaping could have mitigated damage for some. The absence of these precautions exposed homes to the floodwaters' full brunt.
The Insurance Gap
Perhaps the most significant oversight was in the realm of insurance coverage. Many homeowners were shocked to discover that standard policies often exclude flood damage, particularly that caused by overland water. Many people believed that insurers treated all water damage the same, and this belief turned out to be a costly mistake.
Neglecting Regular Maintenance and Inspections
Routine maintenance of home systems, especially those related to water management, fell by the wayside for many. Clogged drains, compromised foundation walls, and poorly maintained sump pumps worsen the flooding in numerous households. The crisis underscored the importance of regular home inspections and upkeep.
The Immediate Aftermath: A City in Recovery Mode
Emergency Response and Rescue Operations
As the rain subsided, Toronto's emergency services sprang into action. Fire crews conducted daring rescues, plucking stranded motorists from submerged vehicles and evacuating residents from flooded homes. The coordination between various city departments showcased the importance of robust emergency protocols.
Power Outages and Infrastructure Challenges
The flooding triggered widespread power outages, affecting over 150,000 customers at its peak. Toronto Hydro worked tirelessly to restore electricity, but flooded substations and damaged equipment hampered the process.
Immediate Steps to Take After Flooding
When floodwaters recede, time becomes your most precious commodity in the fight against mold. Here are the critical first steps to take:
Ensure safety: Before re-entering a flooded home, confirm it's structurally sound and that utilities are shut off.
Document damage: Take photos and videos for insurance purposes before starting cleanup.
Remove standing water: Use pumps, wet vacuums, or even buckets to extract as much water as possible.
Start the drying process: Open windows and doors to promote air circulation. If you safely restore power, run fans and dehumidifiers.
Take wet contents out of the affected area. Carpets, furniture, and other soaked belongings should dry in the sun.
Clean and disinfect: First, use a mix of water and detergent to clean all affected surfaces. Then, apply a disinfectant to kill any germs.
By acting swiftly on these initial steps, you significantly reduce the window of opportunity for mold to take hold.
The Role of Professional Mold Inspection
Even with diligent efforts, hidden mold can develop. Professional mold inspection offers several benefits:
Expertise in identifying hidden moisture and mold growth
Advanced tools like infrared cameras and moisture meters
Ability to take air and surface samples for lab analyzing.
Recommendations for targeted remediation if needed
Consider scheduling a professional inspection a few weeks after your flood cleanup to ensure no hidden issues are developing.
Long-Term Strategies for Mold Prevention
Protecting your home from future mold growth involves ongoing vigilance:
Regular maintenance checks for leaks or moisture issues
Improving drainage around your home's exterior
Upgrading to mold-resistant building materials during renovations
Installing and maintaining proper gutters and downspouts
Considering the use of mold-inhibiting paints and primers
These proactive measures can save you from costly mold remediation down the line, along with possible allergic reactions. Professional mold remediation companies have the expertise, equipment, and safety protocols to handle more severe situations effectively.
When to Call in the Professionals
You can handle many parts of flood cleanup and mold prevention yourself. However, there are times when you need professional help:
Large-scale flooding affecting multiple rooms or levels
Suspected contamination with sewage or other hazardous materials
Mold growth covering more than 10 square feet
Recurring mold problems despite your best efforts
Health symptoms that may be related to mold exposure
It is important to deal with water damage in a home quickly, whether the damage comes from flooding, roof leaks, or burst pipes. A qualified water damage restoration company can help with all types of water damage and removal. Many think using fans or towels to dry the area is enough. However, this method often does not stop the dangerous growth of mould. Warm and humid conditions are perfect for mold growth. Even a little water can create the right environment for spores to settle and spread.
Water can seep into surfaces like wood, drywall, and carpets if people do not thoroughly clean and dry them. These materials can retain moisture long after the original water source disappears. Expert water damage restoration companies have the skills and tools to assess all the damage. They can discover areas that may not be easily visible. Experts use powerful dehumidifiers to eliminate extra moisture in small areas, like under floors or behind walls. They also use air movers and moisture meters.
A skilled crew also uses antimicrobial treatments to stop mold growth and prevent further contamination. Mould can start growing within 24 to 48 hours after exposure to water. Once it grows, it becomes much more challenging and more expensive to remove. Contaminated water, like rainwater or sewage overflow, can often cause water damage. It brings harmful germs, viruses, and other pathogens into your home. A licensed water damage restoration business follows strict safety procedures. This ensures that we manage risks appropriately and keep your home safe for your family. Cleaning up a mess in a moist area can increase the chance of mould growth. You might expose yourself to harmful toxins if you lack the right tools or skills.
