It’s been a wet summer, and it looks to be sliding right into a wet autumn here in Toronto and the GTA. That means potential flooding – and the potential for mould.
Residents of older and public buildings in the city complain of leaks and black mould and it hits the news, but it can happen to any home under the right conditions. All it takes for mould to develop is moisture that doesn’t dry out for about 24 to 48 hours.
Fighting floods – fighting mould
When your home floods, it’s not just the furniture and carpets that get wet. Drywall can be ruined, and water may seep into the areas between rooms. That’s where it can get tricky.
Basements are particularly vulnerable. All it takes is for moisture to seep inside a wall where you can’t see it, and with cooler temperatures in a basement, it lingers for a couple of days. The mould spores become airborne, and enter your HVAC system, distributing throughout your home, and into the air you breathe. That’s how it becomes a health problem.
Prevention is the best cure
Here are some steps you can take to help reduce the risk of flooding in your home. Just add them to your yearly fall maintenance list.
- Inspect walls and floors, including the basement and foundation, for cracks, and take measures to seal them.
- Make sure any window wells are well sealed.
- Where it’s possible, disconnect your downspout from the sewer system, and place it where it can drain at least 2 metres from your foundation.
- Clear debris out of eavestroughs.
- Build up any areas on the outside of the home where the land slopes towards the foundations – ideally you want water to drain away from the house.
- Plant bushes and shrubs around your home, particularly native species as they are well adapted to our rainy seasons, and they will absorb the moisture.
A well maintained home is your best defence against flooding, and against mould. Being aware of the current state of your home, and your plumbing systems, is the key to avoiding the conditions where mould spores can grow.
We Can Help
Our mould removal experts have years of experience, and will ensure that your environmental issue is eliminated efficiently. Mould can grow into walls, floors, and even carpets. If you smell that telltale musty odour, give us a call.
Let our technicians help keep you and your family safe. In the Toronto area call GreenStream Environmental at (416) 818-9414. Contact us for a quote today.
Featured in Mike Holmes’ magazine, HGTV’s Income Properties, W Network’s Love It Or List It and chosen by Homestars.com as “Best Toronto Asbestos Removal Company” based on customer ratings and reviews, GreenStream Environmental Services are fully-certified, trusted and insured professionals in the removal and disposal of commercial, industrial, institutional and residential asbestos, vermiculite and mould (hazardous and non-hazardous). Providing emergency service 24/7/365 for all of Toronto and the GTA (North York, Mississauga, Markham, Brampton, Scarborough, Ajax, Oshawa, and beyond) GreenStream has over 40 combined years of experience serving clients such as the City of Toronto, the Toronto District School Board and many more. For a free estimate in Toronto, the GTA and Southern Ontario, call today at 416-818-9414. You’ll be glad you did.
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Tel: (416) 818-9414