When water damage strikes—whether from a leaking roof, burst pipe, or a slow appliance drip—the immediate concern is often the visible mess: wet walls, soggy carpets, or swelling floors. But what many homeowners don’t realize is that water damage often triggers an even more serious—and hidden—threat: mold.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), mold can begin to grow in as little as 24 to 48 hours after water exposure. And once it takes root, it spreads fast—compromising indoor air quality, triggering allergies, and damaging building materials behind the scenes. The CDC also links mold exposure to respiratory issues, asthma flare-ups, and other health complications, especially in children, seniors, and those with compromised immune systems.
Even more concerning? The IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) reports that nearly 60% of homes have existing water damage that could support mold growth, many without the homeowner even knowing it.
This blog explores the connection between water damage and mold growth, how to prevent it, and the importance of professional water damage restoration, mold removal, and mold remediation services in Des Moines.
How Water Damage Leads to Mold
Mold spores are present in almost every environment, and they are always looking for a suitable place to grow. They become active when moisture levels are high, typically above 60%. If your property suffers from water damage, whether due to flooding, leaks, or condensation, these spores can find a perfect home on damp surfaces. Over time, mold can start to grow and spread, causing potential health issues and damaging the integrity of your property.
When water is absorbed by materials like wood, drywall, insulation, carpets, and fabrics, the moisture becomes trapped, creating a conducive environment for mold to flourish. Mold not only damages the materials themselves but also poses serious health risks, especially for individuals with respiratory conditions, allergies, or weakened immune systems.
Preventing Mold Growth After Water Damage is Incredibly Necessary
Mold doesn’t need a lot of time to start growing. It can begin to appear in as little as 24 to 48 hours after water exposure. If the water damage is not dealt with quickly, the mold can spread rapidly, making mold removal and remediation in Des Moines more challenging and costly. The longer the water damage is left untreated, the worse the mold growth can get, leading to more extensive repairs and a higher likelihood of health issues.
There are steps you can take to reduce the risk of mold growth after water damage. Quick action is crucial to preventing the problem from escalating. Here's a guide on how to prevent mold growth and the importance of professional water damage removal services in Des Moines.
Step 1: Act Quickly to Remove Water
The first and most critical step in preventing mold is addressing the water damage as quickly as possible. Whether it’s a small leak or a major flood, water should be removed immediately to prevent it from soaking into walls, floors, and furniture. For minor leaks, using towels or mops can help soak up the water, but for larger issues like flooding, you may need to call professionals who specialize in water damage restoration.
Professional water damage removal services have the right equipment to remove water more efficiently, such as pumps, dehumidifiers, and air movers. They can also help ensure that hard-to-reach areas like under floors or inside walls are thoroughly dried.
Step 2: Dry and Dehumidify the Affected Area
After removing standing water, drying out the area completely is essential. Mold thrives in moist conditions, so even after the water is gone, any lingering dampness can encourage mold growth. A dehumidifier can help lower the moisture levels in the air, making it more difficult for mold to grow. Fans and air movers are also useful tools to increase airflow and promote quicker drying of surfaces.
In some cases, professional water damage restoration services in Des Moines may employ industrial-strength drying equipment to ensure that every nook and cranny of the affected area is dried thoroughly. Remember, mold can begin to form as quickly as 24 hours after water exposure, so time is of the essence.
Step 3: Remove Moisture from Hidden Areas
Water damage doesn’t always affect visible surfaces. It can seep into hidden areas like behind walls, beneath floors, or inside ceilings, where it can remain undetected. Since these areas are less accessible, moisture can linger for longer, creating a perfect environment for mold to grow.
In cases of extensive water damage, professionals will often use advanced techniques like thermal imaging and moisture meters to detect hidden moisture. Once located, they can take the necessary steps to dry the area completely, reducing the risk of mold growth.
Step 4: Repair the Source of the Water Damage
Before any mold remediation can take place, it’s essential to address the source of the water damage. This could mean fixing leaky pipes, sealing cracks in the roof, or repairing windows. If the water source isn’t fixed, the problem could recur, and mold could reappear.
If the source of the water damage is a major issue, such as a flooded basement or roof leak, it’s essential to work with a water damage restoration company that can not only handle the clean-up but also help with the necessary repairs. Addressing the root cause of the problem will prevent future water damage and mold growth from becoming recurring issues.
Step 5: Remove and Replace Damaged Materials
Sometimes, water damage is so severe that the affected materials can’t be salvaged. Porous materials like carpets, insulation, and drywall can absorb water and become a breeding ground for mold if left in place. In such cases, mold removal and replacement of these materials may be necessary to prevent further mold growth.
A professional mold remediation company in Des Moines can assess the damage and determine which materials need to be removed and replaced. This can help restore the affected area to a safe and healthy condition, free of mold and moisture.
Step 6: Consider Mold Treatment
After addressing the water damage, it’s a good idea to treat the area with mold-resistant products. These products can help prevent mold growth by providing an additional layer of protection to surfaces that were exposed to moisture. Some common treatments include mold-resistant paints and sealants for drywall and wood surfaces.
Although these treatments are beneficial, they should not be relied upon as a sole method of preventing mold. Proper water removal and drying are the most effective steps, but mold-resistant products can provide an extra level of security.
Step 7: Keep the Area Well-Ventilated
Good ventilation is essential in preventing mold growth. In areas that are prone to high humidity, like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements, proper airflow can significantly reduce the risk of mold. If the weather allows, open windows to improve airflow, or install exhaust fans to promote ventilation.
A well-ventilated home reduces moisture buildup, which is one of the main contributors to mold growth.
Step 8: Monitor for Mold Growth
Even after taking preventive steps, it’s important to keep an eye out for signs of mold. Look for any discoloration on walls, ceilings, or floors. Mold can appear as black, green, or white patches, and a musty odor is often a telltale sign of mold presence.
If you spot any signs of mold growth, don’t ignore it. Quick action can prevent the problem from spreading. You may want to consider calling a reliable mold removal and remediation company to handle the situation before it gets worse.
When It’s Time to Call the Pros
While prompt action and DIY prevention can make a difference, there comes a point when mold prevention and water cleanup demand more than just towels and fans. If water has saturated building materials, or if mold has already appeared—even in small patches—it’s time to call in certified professionals.
Why? Because mold is more than a surface problem—it can hide behind walls, beneath flooring, and inside HVAC systems. Professional remediation teams don’t just treat the symptoms; they target the source. Using advanced moisture detection tools, industrial-grade drying systems, and EPA-approved antimicrobial treatments, they ensure your property is not only cleaned—but fully restored and protected against future outbreaks.
From comprehensive water damage restoration to safe, certified mold removal, experts provide peace of mind that DIY methods simply can’t match. When your health, home, and long-term investment are on the line, calling in the pros isn’t an option—it’s a necessity.
Conclusion
Water damage can lead to mold growth, but with the right actions, you can prevent it from becoming a bigger problem. Addressing the water damage quickly, drying the area thoroughly, and repairing the source of the issue are the most effective ways to stop mold from taking root. If you’re dealing with water damage or mold growth, don’t hesitate to call in professionals for water damage removal services, mold removal, and mold remediation.
At Rainbow International of Des Moines, we specialize in all aspects of water damage restoration and mold remediation. Our team is equipped with the expertise and tools needed to restore your property to its pre-damage condition and ensure that mold doesn't become a lasting issue. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a mold-free home.
