Repair Your Leaking Roof Before Mold Sets In

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

Mold can begin to propagate in as few as 24 to 48 hours

In Orlando, FL, a roof leak can be sneaky. Ice, water, sun and wind can all cause hidden damage that may not show up for weeks or months. Since the roof is high out of sight, you may not notice a leak until the damage has progressed significantly enough to cause a visible ceiling leak inside the house, even the possible growth of black mold.

How Much Time Before Mold Growth Begins?

Mold can begin to propagate in as few as 24 to 48 hours depending on temperature and humidity, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Mold and its spores can be found virtually everywhere and thrive in damp or wet conditions, so once water appears inside your roof mold has a way of following.

Steps To Removing the Damage

Once you discover a roof leak of any size, you should take action as quickly as possible to ensure that the structural and black mold damage is abated. Here are some things you can do.

• Repair the Roof – This includes potentially removing and replacing broken joists or cracked shingles, sealing cracks, etc.
• Dry Things Out – Use fans if needed or create an opening to allow air movement and help dry things out
• Remove Mold – If uncertain as to how to go about this step, getting help from a professional mold remediation service is a good idea
  
  

Check Periodically

Once the repair is completed, check periodically to make sure mold is not coming back. You may want to install a dehumidification unit to help with moisture. Annual inspections in late summer and early fall can help prevent a leak from occurring during the wet winter and spring months.
Prevention is always preferable, but sometimes things are beyond your control, even with the best of intentions. If that happens, make the repairs and quickly to avoid damage and the black mold growth that can accompany it.