It’s not the first time that extreme weather has made headlines in the GTA this year, but the path of Hurricane Sandy was unprecedented in many ways. While the eastern seaboard of the United States suffered the worst of the effects of so-called Superstorm Sandy at the end of October, it still hit the Toronto area with enough punch to cause power outages and even a death as a woman was hit by sign debris that came loose in the winds that gusted up to 100km/h.
The storm was one of the worst to ever hit U.S. soil and was blamed for more than 70 deaths in the Caribbean and United States. It caused havoc with everything from NYC’s fabled nightlife scene to the nation’s financial markets on flooded Wall Street. Weeks later, some downtown Manhattan businesses are still closed for repairs to electrical systems damaged by the saltwater that flooded their basements.
Basement Flooding
You don’t have to live through a hurricane in downtown Manhattan to experience the frustrations of basement flooding. Heavy rains and the debris of leaves and other vegetation make this time of year particularly prone to flooding. It may be something that’s immediately apparent from damp spots or obvious puddling but it may also lurk in the areas of the basement that you occupy the least in the form of corners or spots that are perpetually damp.
Either way, it’s creating the conditions for mold to grow. Where there is moisture, there is a potential for mold infestation and if there is chronic, lingering moisture you can be virtually certain that it has begun to grow. Once there is moisture that doesn’t dry properly in an area that isn’t treated right away, mold can begin to grow within 24-48 hours if the conditions are right.
- Be vigilant and check in all areas and in every corner of the basement for evidence of dampness
- If there is flooding, drain it and ensure that the affected area is thoroughly dry
- Ventilation is the key to maintaining a mold free basement, particularly in basement and crawlspace areas
- Persistent flooding is indicative of issues that need to be addressed in your home maintenance – avoid skimping on or delaying needed repairs
No matter where it appears, when mold comes back repeatedly, you need professional help.
Let Us Help
Mold exposure is an acknowledged threat to your well-being and you may not know that mold even exists in your home until it affects your health. If you suspect any leaks or lingering moisture in your home, or if you’re experiencing flu-like or respiratory symptoms you can’t explain, give yourself peace of mind.
For Mold Inspection & Testing Services in Toronto, call us for a hassle-free quote today.
MoldInspections.ca is the trusted leader for mold-free homes and breathable indoor air spaces in Toronto, the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), and beyond. Providing certified mold inspection, detection and testing since 2005, we service home owners, real-estate agents, landlords, property managers, insurance companies and businesses. Featured on CTV and recommended by contractors, we regularly serve as expert witnesses in court proceeding relating to Mold and Indoor Air Quality issues. Do you have mold? Call us today for a free quote at (416) 575-6111.