LAKE BALBOA, CA – After a storm or flood hits your property, mold can become a serious and costly issue. That’s why SERVPRO® of Van Nuys South is helping homeowners in Lake Balboa take the right steps to avoid mold damage and protect their property. With 24/7 emergency support, SERVPRO of Van Nuys South provides professional services in water damage restoration, fire damage cleanup, and mold remediation for both residential and commercial properties.
Understanding the mold threat in Lake Balboa after wet weather
Following severe weather events, which can include heavy rainfall and flash flooding common to the region, homes in Lake Balboa can become particularly vulnerable to mold. Mold is a type of fungus, and its spores are present nearly everywhere. However, when these microscopic spores land on damp surfaces—a frequent occurrence after a storm—they can begin to grow and multiply within just 24 to 48 hours. This rapid growth can lead to significant problems.
The presence of mold is far more than a simple inconvenience; it poses notable risks to the structural integrity of homes. SERVPRO of Van Nuys South addresses how storm damage creates ideal conditions for mold. It explains that mold requires moisture, an organic food source (abundant in homes in the form of wood, paper, drywall, or even dust), suitable temperatures, and time to develop. Storm-related incidents, such as roof leaks and damaged windows, allowing rain entry or overland flooding, directly provide the excess moisture needed for mold to thrive. SERVPRO of Van Nuys South identifies commonly vulnerable areas within Lake Balboa homes, including basements, crawl spaces, attics, and inside wall cavities, where moisture can collect unseen.
Complete strategies are outlined in the new homeowner's guide
The resource emphasizes the importance of immediate and informed action after water enters a home. Key recommendations and information detailed in the guide include:
Prioritizing safety and documenting damage immediately
The guide first advises homeowners on how to evaluate their property post-storm safely. This includes the importance of using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) like N95 respirators, waterproof gloves, and boots when dealing with potentially contaminated areas. It also explains the critical need to take extensive photos and videos of all affected areas and damaged property before any cleanup or removal. This documentation is vital for facilitating insurance claims for Lake Balboa properties.
Critical steps for water removal and effective drying
A core focus is the 24-48 hour window for thoroughly drying out a home to effectively limit mold colonization. The guide offers practical tips on accelerating this process. These include using air movers, strategically placing dehumidifiers, and employing proper ventilation techniques to remove moisture from structures and the air.
Managing indoor humidity and cleaning affected areas
Long-term moisture control is also detailed, educating homeowners on maintaining ideal indoor humidity levels (between 30-50%). The guide suggests using tools like hygrometers and consistently running dehumidifiers in moisture-prone areas. Advice is provided on cleaning mold from non-porous surfaces and making informed decisions about removing and discarding porous materials like saturated carpets, drywall, and insulation, which can harbor hidden mold.
Guidance on DIY mold removal versus professional mold remediation
The resource offers clear guidance on when small, contained mold issues (typically less than 10 square feet on non-porous surfaces) might be handled by the homeowner as a DIY mold removal project, provided strict safety precautions are followed. It also highlights distinct red flags, such as large mold infestations, contamination of HVAC systems, suspected hidden mold, or water damage involving sewage, that necessitate calling IICRC-certified mold remediation professionals serving the Lake Balboa area.
Implementing long-term mold prevention measures
Finally, the guide details proactive, long-term strategies to make homes more resilient. These include improving exterior drainage and property grading to direct water away from foundations, conducting regular home maintenance checks for leaks in roofs, plumbing, and around windows, and considering the use of mold-resistant building materials during any repairs or renovations.
Lake Balboa residents are strongly encouraged to access and familiarize themselves with this free resource to better prepare for and effectively respond to the persistent threat of mold growth after wet weather events. Early intervention based on sound knowledge is the best defense.
About SERVPRO of Van Nuys South
SERVPRO of Van Nuys South is a trusted local partner for cleanup and restoration services. The company is committed to serving the Van Nuys South community with professionalism and care. Its highly trained technicians specialize in water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, thorough mold remediation, and effective storm damage cleanup. Equipped with advanced technology, the team handles projects of any size for residential and commercial clients. SERVPRO of Van Nuys South strives to provide a swift, reliable response and quality workmanship, aiming to make it "Like it never even happened." Email them at [email protected] or contact them at (818) 780-7111 for mold cleanup services.
