Water Damage and Odor Control

5/21/2020 (Permalink)

One of the first things homeowners often notice in a water damage environment is the persistent, unbearable malodors.  There have been times where homeowners had a small water loss that they felt was unnecessary to call a restoration company to dry because they felt they could easily handle it themselves, until the manifestation of odors forced their hand.  The looming question is why does it seem that water damage and odors go hand in hand?

Moisture is one of the key components in odor creation as microorganisms, such, as mold, fungi, and pathogens and other bio-pollutants need it flourish.  In a water damaged environment the moisture creates a suitable environment for them to multiply.  The organic materials, such as wood, drywall and carpet backing found in homes are the food source these organisms thrive on.  They are already present in most home environments, but at very low levels; because without moisture they are unable to survive.  This is one of the reasons why proper drying to the IICRCS500 standard is necessary for each water damaged environment.  When water is trapped under flooring, behind baseboards, wall cavities, and behind toe kicks of cabinets and is not properly dried it creates the conditions for exacerbated microbial growth and the mycotoxins they release are the odors that are smelt.  These malodors are a warning of danger and it is a well-known fact that water damaged environments can pose serious health risks if not properly mitigated.  The number 1 reason for residual malodors in a water damaged environment is improper drying.

The solution to odor elimination is to remove the source of the odor and this is not done by spraying air freshener and masking the odor.  The well trained water restoration specialists of SERVPRO of South Durham and Orange County will not only treat the odor, but will leave you with the peace of mind that your home or business has been returned to a condition 1 , level of dryness, which is the drying goal of the industry standard aforementioned.  SERVPRO of South Durham and Orange County will make it "Like it never even happened."