Water in walls is a common issue that homeowners have to deal with regularly. When water infiltrates a wall’s cavities, it creates a conducive environment for mold growth. While water damage in walls can lead to mold growth, this is not always the case. There are several factors that contribute to mold growth after water damage, and taking prompt action is necessary to prevent mold growth and potential health risks. In this blog, we will examine whether water in walls always causes mold, the factors contributing to mold growth after water damage, and how ORC Services can help with mold and water damage.

Does Water in Walls Always Cause Mold? Water in walls does not always cause mold growth, but it can create a conducive environment for mold to grow. Mold spores are present in the environment and take advantage of damp or wet conditions to grow and multiply. Several factors contribute to mold growth in walls after water damage.

The Type of Water Damage. The type of water damage is an essential factor influencing mold growth.

    • Generally, Category 1 water damage, also known as clean water damage, does not pose an immediate risk of mold growth. This type of damage is typically caused by clean water sources such as pipes or faucets.
    • On the other hand, Category 2 and Category 3 water damage have a higher probability of causing mold growth. Greywater damage (Category 2) is caused by wastewater that contains some level of contamination, such as washing machine discharge or dishwasher overflow.
    • Blackwater damage (Category 3) is caused by water that is highly contaminated by harmful bacteria, such as sewage waste.

 

Porousness of the Material. Porous materials such as drywall, wood, and insulation are more likely to support mold growth, as they can retain moisture even after drying the outer layers of the material. When porous materials become damp or wet, mold can grow easily, as the moisture serves as a food source.

The Length of Exposure. Mold growth is more likely to occur if water has been present in a wall for an extended period. The longer the exposure, the higher the chance of mold growth as mold spores can begin to colonize and consume the porous materials in the wall cavity.

Factors Contributing to Mold Growth After Water Damage. Mold growth after water damage is a serious issue that often leads to harmful effects on a property’s occupants. The likelihood of mold growth after water damage will vary depending on several factors, including the material affected, water type, and the length of exposure.

  1. Type of Water Damage.  As mentioned earlier, the type of water damage is one of the primary factors that contribute to mold growth. Category 1 water damage, which is caused by clean water, has a lower likelihood of causing mold growth. However, Category 2 and Category 3 water damage, caused by contaminated water, pose a higher health risk and increase the chances of mold growth.
  2. The Extent of the Damage. The extent of the water damage greatly contributes to the likelihood of mold growth. Water that has only affected a small area is less likely to cause mold growth than water that has spread to a larger surface area.
  3. Porousness of the Material. Porous materials, such as drywall or carpeting, can retain moisture, increasing the risk of mold growth after water damage. Non-porous materials, such as metals or plastics, are less susceptible to mold growth.
  4. Temperature and Humidity. High humidity levels and warmer temperatures create a conducive environment for mold growth. If the water damage restoration process takes too long, these conditions can contribute to mold growth.
  5. Time. The likelihood of mold growth increases the longer water has been present. As time goes by, the damage can worsen, and mold spores can reproduce, leading to rapid mold growth.

 

The Risks of Mold Growth After Water Damage. Mold growth poses a risk and can be harmful to occupants of affected properties. Prolonged exposure to mold can lead to health issues such as respiratory problems, allergies, and infections. It is therefore essential that property owners take preventative measures to minimize and eliminate mold growth.

Signs to Look Out for in Mold Growth: 

  • Visible mold growth in a wall cavity, ceiling or any other area that has suffered water damage
  • Damp or musty smell in the affected area
  • Discoloured walls or ceilings that were previously clean and free from discoloration
  • Peeling paint or wallpaper
  • Allergic reactions and respiratory issues in occupants of the affected property

 

Preventing Mold Growth After Water Damage. Preventative measures are vital in minimizing the risk of mold growth after water damage. Below are some steps to follow:

  1. Act Quickly. The key to preventing mold growth is to act quickly. Prompt action on drying the wall cavity and fixing the source of the water damage can minimize the risk of mold growth.
  2. Increase Ventilation. It would be best if you increased airflow throughout the affected area to help decrease the likelihood of mold growth. Consider using fans or dehumidifiers to help with the drying process.
  3. Disinfect the Affected Surface. Disinfect the surface to kill any bacteria or other microorganisms that may be present. Disinfectants such as bleach solutions are effective in killing microorganisms and preventing future mold growth.
  4. Inspect the Property Regularly. Regular inspection of the property will help identify signs of water damage or potential issues that can lead to mold.