If you’ve just had a water leak, you’re probably thinking, “Okay, how much trouble is this going to cause me?” We get it. As a family-owned business right here in Red Deer, we know just how stressful these situations can be.
A small leak may not seem like a big deal at first, but when mould is involved, things can go downhill fast. In fact, mould has an uncanny ability to settle in and start growing within just 24 to 48 hours of water exposure.
That’s why timing matters so much when it comes to taking care of a leak and the mould it can cause. So, let’s break down how quickly mould sets in, what you can do about it, and when it’s time to call in some local experts.
Spoiler alert: that’s us—Rawk J Services!
How Fast Does Mould Grow After a Water Leak?
You spot a water stain on the ceiling or floor—maybe from a leaky roof or a sneaky burst pipe. You grab a towel, mop up the water, and assume everything is fine. But here’s the tricky part—mould can start growing faster than you’d expect.
Within 24 to 48 hours, tiny mould spores in the air find the moisture. They settle in, start spreading, and soon those small, damp patches can transform into a full-blown mould colony. When the conditions are damp and dark, it’s like mould has rolled out its welcome mat.
Not every leak will automatically lead to mould, of course. But if moisture seeps into walls, carpets, or crawl spaces, your home can become prime territory for mould growth.
What Speeds Up Mould Growth After Water Damage?
The faster you dry things out, the better chance you have of stopping mould in its tracks. But what if your leak happened in an area that’s hard to reach or naturally damp? Here are the key culprits that make mould grow faster than you’d like:
- Humidity: We all know how damp Red Deer can get, especially in basements or bathrooms. High humidity levels create the perfect environment for mould to thrive. If there’s already moisture in the air, a little leak can make things worse fast.
- Poor Ventilation: Ever noticed that some rooms stay damp longer than others? Those are usually the ones without good airflow. Basements, attics, and closets are all prime spots for mould because they trap moisture and don’t allow fresh air to circulate.
- Organic Materials: Mould loves to munch on things like wood, drywall, and carpet. When these materials get wet, they act as a buffet for mould spores, which feed and grow faster than you’d expect.
So, if you’ve got a water leak in a poorly ventilated or humid area with materials like wood or drywall, you’re looking at an ideal setup for mould to move in.
Early Stages: What Mould Looks Like in Its First Days
In those first few days after a leak, mould might still be flying under the radar. At this stage, it’s usually just small, slightly discoloured spots on walls, ceilings, or floors. Sometimes, it looks like little black, green, or grey specks that are easy to miss. And it’s sneaky—mould loves hiding in places you don’t check every day, like under carpets, behind baseboards, or in the dark corners of a basement.
Another early sign? That unmistakable musty smell. If you’ve ever walked into a damp basement and thought, “Wow, that smells like mould,” that’s your nose picking up on it long before your eyes do. Don’t ignore that smell. It’s a big red flag telling you that something’s brewing.
Health Risks of Mould After Water Damage: What You Should Know
Mould isn’t just bad for your home; it’s also bad for your health. If you or anyone in your household starts experiencing allergy-like symptoms—coughing, sneezing, itchy eyes, skin rashes—mould could be the culprit. For people with asthma or respiratory issues, mould can be especially hard on the lungs, making it tough to breathe and causing wheezing or other symptoms to worsen. Even if you’re as fit as a fiddle, prolonged mould exposure isn’t something to mess with.
And let’s not forget the notorious black mould. This is one of the more toxic types and can cause a range of nasty symptoms, from chronic fatigue to headaches. While not all mould is this harmful, it’s better to be cautious, especially when your health is on the line.
DIY Mould Control Tips for Small Leaks
So, you’ve found a little leak and you want to tackle it yourself. Good on you! For small leaks, there are some effective DIY steps you can take to help keep mould at bay:
- Dry the Area Thoroughly: First things first—grab some towels, fans, and even a dehumidifier if you’ve got one. Get the area as dry as possible, as fast as possible.
- Use a Dehumidifier: Running a dehumidifier in damp areas, like basements or bathrooms, can pull moisture out of the air and reduce the chances of mould forming.
- Ventilate: Open up windows and doors to let fresh air flow through the space. For those tough-to-dry spots like basements, a few portable fans can go a long way in speeding up the drying process.
- Inspect Regularly: After drying, check the area for any lingering dampness or new mould patches over the next week or two. Sometimes mould can hide, so keep an eye out for any changes.
While these DIY steps are helpful, keep in mind that mould can still be tricky, especially if it’s hiding behind walls or under floors. If you feel like you’re out of your depth, we’re here to help.
When to Call the Professionals: Big Leaks and Hidden Mould
Now, there are some situations where DIY just isn’t going to cut it, and that’s okay.
Mould can be more serious than it looks, especially if it’s hiding or has had time to spread. Here’s when you should consider calling in a professional team like us:
- Large Water Leaks: If a major leak has soaked through multiple areas, the chances of mould spreading increase. Don’t wait—give us a call before things get worse.
- Hidden Mould: Sometimes you can smell it, but you can’t see it. Mould loves to hide in walls, crawl spaces, and under carpets. We’ve got the tools and experience to locate and safely remove hidden mould.
- Toxic Mould: If you’re dealing with black mould or any toxic variety, it’s best to bring in certified experts. We handle this stuff all the time and follow strict protocols to keep you and your home safe.
With our 24/7 availability, we’re ready to jump in whenever you need us. We know that time is of the essence, and that’s why we respond fast—no waiting around when your health and home are at risk.
Read more: Mould on Bathroom Ceiling? Pro Cleaning Hacks to Tackle Bathroom Mould
Long-Term Solutions to Prevent Mould Growth in Your Home
Prevention is always better than a cure, so let’s talk about some simple steps you can take to keep mould from becoming a regular visitor:
- Fix Leaks Promptly: Whether it’s a dripping tap or a leaky roof, tackling repairs early can save you a lot of trouble down the line.
- Improve Ventilation: Keep air circulating, especially in damp-prone areas like bathrooms, basements, and laundry rooms. Exhaust fans work wonders for this!
- Use a Dehumidifier: Red Deer isn’t exactly tropical, but high humidity levels can still sneak up on you. Running a dehumidifier in your basement or other humid areas can make a big difference.
- Regular Inspections: Check common areas where leaks or dampness could develop—under sinks, around windows, and near any plumbing. A quick check every few months can catch problems early.
If you’re unsure or want peace of mind, we offer mould testing services. It’s a simple way to know for sure if your home is safe and mould-free.
Read more from MyHealth Alberta: Mouldy Homes and Buildings: Managing Indoor Mould
Protect Your Home from Mould: Contact Rawk J Services
Mould can go from a minor inconvenience to a major headache fast. If you’ve had a water leak, don’t wait to get a mold inspection. With quick drying, ventilation, and a close watch on problem areas, you can often keep mould in check. But if it’s already taken root, remember we’re here to help.
At Rawk J Services, we’re dedicated to protecting Red Deer’s homes and families from the risks of mould and other hazardous materials.
If you’re facing a mould issue after a water leak or just want some peace of mind, contact us today. We’re your friendly neighbourhood experts, always ready to lend a hand.