This weekends Nor'easter flooded streets and basements and also left many drivers stranded in their vehicles in Waltham, MA. Residents from Linden Street were evacuated and taken to a high school shelter the day after heavy rains flooded the area.
As the waters crest and eventually recede some property owners who venture back into their homes and businesses may be greeted by flooded properties and ruined belongings. Many other property owners are likely to come across roof leaks and other structural issues that have allowed water to enter their properties.
Although damage from water alone can be costly, once mold begins to grow in a property the costs and repercussions can quickly escalate. In most indoor environments it takes as little as 24 to 48 hours for mold to begin to grow on wet building materials. Due to this fact it is important to immediately stop the source of any water or excessive humidity and to dry the property as quickly as possible. Wet materials need to be addressed right away.
The moisture can lead to mold growth in as short as 24 hours causing indoor air quality (IAQ) problems. Properties flooded not only have to deal with water damage issues such as mold but also environmental concerns since flood waters can contain all types sewage, bacteria and chemical contaminants that end up in the properties.
EMSL Analytical, one of the largest environmental testing laboratories and environmental equipment providers, has a complete array of tools for professionals and property owners following water incursions. Products include drying fans, personal protective equipment, biocides and moisture meters. EMSL also has equipment warehouses on both coasts so products can be shipped quickly and efficiently.
“When proper equipment is put to work right after water damage has occurred this can make a huge difference in the final outcome,” reported Jody Thomason, Director of Products Division for EMSL Analytical. “It is imperative to begin properly drying out a building as quickly as possible to prevent costly microbial contamination,”
To learn more about drying equipment, remediation products and testing services please contact EMSL Analytical at (800)220-3675, visit www.EMSL.com or email info@EMSL.com.
