Mold Remediation: How Can Homeowners Combat Mold Growth?
San Antonio, United States - July 8, 2025 / SERVPRO of La Vernia, Pleasanton /
SAN ANTONIO, TX – Following a season of severe weather events in South Texas, SERVPRO of La Vernia, Pleasanton is providing detailed guidance for homeowners in the Sandy Oaks community regarding the significant and often hidden threat of mold growth after water damage and flooding. The company stresses that mold can begin to colonize within just 24 to 48 hours of water intrusion. A prompt and professional response is key to protecting property value and structural integrity.
Why storm damage creates ideal conditions for mold
Storms create the ideal conditions for mold by introducing moisture into a home’s interior through roof leaks, damaged seals on windows and doors, or ground-level flooding. This moisture activates dormant, microscopic mold spores that are a natural part of the environment. Once active, these spores use common building materials as a food source, including the paper facing on drywall, the wood in wall studs and subflooring, and even accumulated dust. The high ambient humidity in the South Texas region further complicates the issue by minimizing these materials from drying out on their own, which can sustain and accelerate mold growth inside walls and other hidden spaces.
How to identify a potential mold problem
A primary concern for property owners is understanding how to identify a potential mold problem. The first indicator is often a distinct, musty odor. This earthy smell is caused by microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs), which are gases produced by mold as it grows and digests material. This odor is a definitive sign of mold activity, even if no growth is visible. Visual signs include discoloration on walls, ceilings, or baseboards, appearing as spots or patches of black, green, white, or brown. The texture may be fuzzy, powdery, or slimy. Homeowners should also look for secondary signs like peeling paint, bubbling wallpaper, or warped building materials, which indicate moisture is trapped behind the surface.
The risks of do-it-yourself mold cleanup
Company representatives warn against the common mistakes made during do-it-yourself cleanup efforts, which can worsen the situation.
Using bleach on porous surfaces like drywall is largely ineffective. While it may remove the surface color of the mold, its high water content can soak into the material, feeding the underlying root structure (mycelium) and potentially encouraging future growth. Attempting a mold removal without proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) also presents a safety risk, as disturbing a colony can release a high concentration of spores into the breathing space.
The professional mold remediation process
The professional mold remediation process is a systematic and scientific approach designed for safety and thoroughness. The process begins with a detailed assessment to locate all affected areas, followed by the setup of containment barriers using plastic sheeting and negative air pressure. This isolates the contaminated area and prevents cross-contamination.
During the process, industrial-grade air scrubbers and HEPA filters capture airborne spores while technicians carefully remove and dispose of contaminated porous materials. All remaining salvageable materials, like wood framing, are cleaned with antimicrobial agents before the restoration phase begins.
About SERVPRO of La Vernia, Pleasanton
SERVPRO of La Vernia, Pleasanton is a community-focused cleaning and restoration leader for residential and commercial clients. They help property owners recover from water, fire, storms, and other disasters with a rapid response to minimize disruption and further damage.
A primary area of expertise is addressing the consequences of water damage, especially the growth of mold. The company provides complete mold remediation services, a scientific process that begins with assessment and containment. This service includes a thorough mold clean-up of the environment and the safe mold removal of non-salvageable materials like drywall and insulation.
SERVPRO of La Vernia, Pleasanton offers 24/7 emergency service with certified technicians using advanced equipment for damage inspection and restoration. They guide clients through the entire process, including insurance claims, aiming to return properties to their pre-loss condition, "Like it never even happened."
Contact SERVPRO of La Vernia, Pleasanton at (830) 767-0500, by emailing them at office+2@servpro11423.com.
Contact Information:
SERVPRO of La Vernia, Pleasanton
2730 S Foster Rd
San Antonio, TX 78220
United States
Billy Maggard
(830) 767-0500
https://www.servpro.com/locations/tx/servpro-of-la-vernia-pleasanton
