Community Corner

Home Flooded? Follow These Mold Tips

If you live in Hopatcong, you probably dealt with some flooding. Mold could come next. Here's how to keep yourself safe.

If you live in Hopatcong, there's a solid chance you experienced at least a little flooding during Hurricane Irene.

And often, flooding leads to the formation of mold, which can be more than unsightly—it can be dangerous.

With that in mind, here are five—well, actually eight—bits of information from the Environmental Protection Agency on mold and how to stop it from becoming a problem.

Find out what's happening in Hopatcong-Spartawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

  1. Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures include allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory complaints.
  2. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
  3. If mold is a problem in your home or school, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
  4. Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
  5. Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mold growth by: venting bathrooms, dryers, and other moisture-generating sources to the outside; using air conditioners and de-humidifiers; increasing ventilation; and using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing, and cleaning.
  6. Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
  7. Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are moldy, may need to be replaced.
  8. Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here