After A Flood, Act Fast to Prevent A Mold Outbreak

Isaac in all its guises-hurricane, tropical storm, tropical depression-dropped a lot
of rain on residents of the Gulf Coast leaving behind a soggy mess. The next
threat for affected homeowners is mold, which can ruin home furnishings and
pose problems for residents with allergies, asthma, and compromised immune
systems. To keep it in check, homeowners should attack the problem within 24 to
48 hours.

The Environmental Protection Agency recommends that homeowners clean up minor mold outbreaks with a little elbow grease and a mixture of water and detergent but the agency doesn't rule out the use of bleach or other biocides for larger problems. People whose homes have been soaked or affected by dirty water will likely need help from a professional mold remediation service, especially if their heating and cooling system has been submerged.

Here are some tips from the EPA, Centers for Disease Control and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. 

• Clean up and dry out the building quickly. Open doors and windows and use fans and dehumidifiers. 
• Remove all porous items that have been wet for more than 48 hours and that cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. These items can remain a source of mold growth. 
• Porous, non-cleanable items include carpeting and carpet padding, upholstery, wallpaper, drywall, ceiling tiles, insulation material, some clothing, leather, paper, some wood and wood products, and food. Removal and cleaning are important because even dead mold can cause allergic      reactions. 
• Clean wet items and surfaces with detergent and water to prevent mold growth. Temporarily store damaged or discarded items outside the home or building until insurance claims can be processed. 
• For mold that's caused by floodwaters, use a mixture of ½ cup of bleach mixed into a gallon of water.  

If you're attempting this task at home, the EPA recommends that you cover your eyes, nose and hands. Wear long gloves, goggles and a respirator-ask for an N-95 respirator at your local hardware store and follow instructions on how to get a good fit.

If you would like to know more please call us.

1-888-707-7211 or go to www.OutstandingPlumber.com to set up your appointment. Be sure to mention this email so you can take advantage of this limited time offer.

(cannot be combined with other special offers)

Have a better than great day and remember Outstanding is here to serve you with any of your plumbing, heating, cooling, drain cleaning needs, and so much more. We are Outstanding to have around the house.

1-888-707-7211

Rob Cartelli