Water damage is bad enough on its own—but if left unaddressed, it opens the door to something even more dangerous: mold. In Farmington Hills, MI often humid environment, mold can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours after water exposure. That’s why timing is everything. Whether it’s a burst pipe, basement flood, or leaky roof, fast action is the key to protecting both your property and your health.
Table of Contents
1. Why Mold Grows So Quickly After Water Damage
Mold spores are everywhere—indoors and out—but they only become a problem when they find moisture. Once water enters your home, those spores settle in and start multiplying.
What mold needs to grow:
- Moisture (from leaks, floods, or condensation)
- Organic material (like drywall, wood, or carpet)
- Warmth (which is common in indoor environments)
In as little as 24 hours, mold can begin forming colonies behind walls, under flooring, and inside ceilings. That’s why the first hours after water damage are the most critical.
Check out our blog on how to know if your home has been affected by water damage.
2. The Health Risks of Delayed Mold Remediation
It’s easy to underestimate mold, especially if it’s not immediately visible. But hidden mold can lead to serious health problems—especially for children, seniors, or those with respiratory conditions.
Health symptoms linked to mold exposure:
- Persistent coughing or sneezing
- Eye, nose, or throat irritation
- Asthma attacks or worsened allergy symptoms
- Skin rashes
- Respiratory infections in extreme cases
The longer mold goes untreated, the worse these issues become. Acting quickly can help protect your family from long-term exposure.
3. Structural Damage Caused by Mold Growth
Mold doesn’t just threaten your health—it eats away at your home’s structure, too. When mold penetrates building materials, it causes them to weaken, rot, and crumble.
Common areas affected:
- Drywall and insulation
- Wood framing and flooring
- HVAC ducts and vents
- Subfloors and ceilings
Severe cases may require full demolition and reconstruction of affected areas. That’s why Aaron Builders always recommends professional dry-out and mold mitigation immediately after water damage occurs—to catch the problem before it grows out of control.
4. The 24–48 Hour Rule: What to Do Right After Water Damage
Time is your greatest ally—or your worst enemy—when it comes to mold prevention. Follow this checklist as soon as you discover water damage:
- Call a professional restoration company like Aaron Builders
- We’re available 24/7 with 1-hour on-site arrival times.
- Begin water extraction immediately
- The sooner you remove standing water, the better.
- Set up industrial drying equipment
- Air movers and dehumidifiers help remove moisture trapped in walls, floors, and furniture.
- Remove any soaked or unsalvageable materials
- This includes insulation, carpet pads, wallpaper, and drywall if necessary.
- Monitor for moisture and mold growth
- Aaron Builders uses moisture meters and thermal imaging to detect hidden water and prevent mold before it starts.
5. Choose Mold Remediation Experts You Can Trust
At Aaron Builders, we understand how overwhelming water damage and mold concerns can be. That’s why we’ve spent over 40 years helping Michigan homeowners and businesses recover quickly, safely, and completely.
Our mold remediation services include:
- Damage assessment and moisture testing
- Containment and air filtration
- Safe mold removal and disposal
- Cleaning and sanitizing of salvageable items
- Complete reconstruction services if needed
We work with all major insurance carriers and provide detailed documentation to support your claim every step of the way.
Act Fast to Stop Mold—Call Aaron Builders Today
Don’t wait for mold to take root in your home. The first 24–48 hours after water damage are crucial. Let Aaron Builders help you respond quickly and effectively, so you can avoid costly repairs and protect your family’s health.
Call us 24/7 at 248-957-9660
Visit aaronbuilders.com
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We’re here when you need us—because mold won’t wait, and neither should you.