Mold After a Fire: Firefighting Water and What to Do
Why mold can grow after a fire, how long it takes and how fast drying and cleanup reduce the risk.
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- Give your city and ZIP code
- Say what happened and whether the fire is out
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Quick answer
Water used to put out a fire soaks walls, floors and insulation. Mold can begin growing on wet materials within 24 to 48 hours, according to the EPA, so drying quickly and removing materials that stayed wet is the best prevention.
Why fires lead to mold
Fire hoses and sprinklers add large amounts of water to a building that may also be closed up, warm and damaged. Wet drywall, insulation and subfloors hold moisture, and soot and ash can add nutrients for mold.
Signs of mold
- Musty odor that remains after the smoke smell fades
- Discoloration or fuzzy spots on walls, ceilings and framing
- Warped or damp materials
- Health complaints that improve when you leave the building
What helps
- Start water removal and drying as soon as the building is safe.
- Remove wet insulation, drywall and carpet padding that cannot dry in time.
- Use moisture readings to confirm materials are dry.
- Keep air moving and humidity controlled with professional equipment.
- Report any mold you see to the restoration company early.
When to bring in mold specialists
Large areas of visible mold or persistent moisture problems may need mold remediation by a qualified professional. Ask the restoration company how it handles mold found during fire repair.
Post fire mold remediation
Post fire mold remediation is needed when materials stayed wet long enough to grow mold. Prevention is faster and cheaper: extract water, dry quickly and monitor moisture. The EPA offers guidance on mold cleanup and when to call a professional.
Sources and further reading
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