Cleanup should begin as soon as possible after the flooding stops to prevent structural damage, rotting of building materials and household furniture, and very importantly, mold growth. Molds produce tremendous amounts of spores which can become airborne. The airborne spores spread to other sites where they can grow if provided favorable conditions. They can also be inhaled.
Some individuals can have allergic reactions to the inhaled mold spores.
Individuals who have health conditions which have weakened their natural immune defenses may acquire serious illness from inhaled mold spores. For these health reasons and to minimize future mold growth in your home, it is important for you to clean and dry your home as soon as possible after a flood. Air Drying Process Wet building materials and surfaces dry as water evaporates from the material or surface. Evaporation is a phase change, from liquid to vapor, which requires an input of energy. The air-drying rate depends on the amount of water vapor in the air.