How Long Does it Take for Mold to Grow After Water Damage in Dallas?

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

Mold grows quickly after water damage occurs. Contact our Dallas SERVPRO for mold remediation and water damage restoration before mold sets in.

After water damage, mold and mildew growth will occur anywhere from 24 hours to 48 hours. But how quickly mold grows can depend on ambient conditions, and if the water damage is mitigated quickly. So, just how long does it take for mold to grow after water damage in Dallas?

Mold Grows Fast After Water Damage Indoors

Outside, it can take weeks for mold to fully form and grow. But indoors, mold after water damage happens fast because indoor conditions don’t allow for as much airflow as the great outdoors. Also, direct sunlight can inhibit mold growth so, the darker, and less ventilated a space is, the faster mold can grow. In some cases, mold will form as quickly as 24 hours after water damage. 

Mold Loves to Hide

Mold spores thrive in damp, dark environments. When leaks and other water damage occur, water will find its way into every nook and cranny of a building. Behind walls, inside floorboards, beneath carpets, attics, and other hidden, dark places make ideal conditions for mold growth. 

Soft Surfaces Are More Conducive to Mold Growth After Water Damage

Porous and soft organic surfaces, like carpeting, drywall, and wood, are prime locations for mold growth. If the moisture after a water damage incident is not cleaned quickly from these types of surfaces, they will begin to rot as the mold spores feed on them. 

Mold spores have a harder time invading and growing on hard surfaces, like concrete or tile. In these instances, mold can take up to three weeks to start growing. However, mold growth left untreated for several weeks or months means you could be left dealing with structural damage to the building.

Thoroughly Clean Water Damaged Areas Quickly to Reduce and Destroy Mold

How long it takes for mold to grow after water damage depends on how ventilated and open the area is. Kitchens and living rooms are often the last places that see mold growth because they often get the most sunlight and airflow. But the key to inhibiting mold growth is to clean any water damage ASAP. 

At SERVPRO of North Irving, we’ve seen our fair share of water damage and mold growth. If you’re dealing with the aftermath of flooding or plumbing leaks, contact our Dallas SERVPRO location online today, or call us 24/7 at (972) 986-7677. Our team provides professional mold remediation and water damage restoration services to communities across the Dallas area. We’ll get back to you immediately and stop those mold spores in their tracks.