The Black Mold Problem in Flood-Ravaged Areas
Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, & Wilma
In late 2005, America watched as New Orleans and parts of Texas were deluged with water washing in from Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Wilma.
The hurricanes themselves cause little water damage, though the storm surges and levee failures that followed created large-scale flooding disasters that will take years, if not decades, to rebuild.
The duration of the flooding, along with the extent and number of structures flooded made the probability of mold a certainty.
Mold’s number one fuel is excess moisture, and when there are homes covered in water for weeks at a time, there is no likelihood of the homes drying out any time soon. In addition to the floodwaters, homes were subject to high levels of humidity in the air.
This meant that when the floodwater receded, the homes still did not have the proper ventilation needed to completely dry out. Extensive and wide-spread black mold was the unfortunate consequence that quickly followed.
Mold Contamination in Homes
Not many people could turn on the news that year without seeing the footage of the flood-ravaged homes.
Many homes were labeled as hazards, and occupants were unable to return for their belongings due to the dangerous instability and mold contamination.
Black mold covered entire floors, rotting out floorboards and spreading up walls. Not only did mold become a problem indoors, but exposed wood and other home materials quickly became victim as well.
Because many residents were unable to return to their home for several months, the extent of the damage was beyond repair.
Most homes were marked for destruction, and they are being torn down after one final walk through for hurricane victims. Homes that survived the fierce winds of the hurricane did not escape the terminal destruction caused by the excess and continued exposure to water and moisture.
Many people lost their homes and businesses to black mold. An estimated 60-80% of buildings in New Orleans alone were severely flooded and saturated to the point of needing demolition.
Those Not Directly Affected by Flooding Still Experience Mold Problems
Mold was a problem in other areas not affected by such prolonged flooding.
The excess moisture and water from a hurricane affects not only the interior of homes, but also the landscaping, the foundation, and the roofing. All of these are problems that can cause mold to grow.
If landscaping is disturbed enough to allow water to flow under the foundation and up the walls, mold can become a big problem, especially because it will go unnoticed for some time. Water can infiltrate the insulation and damage the floorboards.
Much of this will be unseen until it begins to seep through the structures, although odors and health problems may begin before the mold is actually seen.
Roofs may leak and ceiling tiles may develop mold on the exterior side of the house. Mobile homes are known for dry wall ceiling tiles, and they readily absorb the moisture and create a breeding ground for mold.
This type of growth is apparent, as the tiles will swell and the staining will show through almost immediately.
Further Recommended Reading :
Joslyn from the MoldBlogger Team
