By Earl Carr, Jr., President of Gulf 52, Hammond, Louisiana
In the aftermath of hurricanes and severe storms, one of the most pressing and often underestimated threats to a structure is mold. While floodwaters and wind damage usually take the spotlight, mold moves quietly, often starting its destructive work within 24 to 48 hours of water exposure. Without a swift and strategic response, mold can compromise both the structural integrity of a building and the health of those who occupy it.
Preventing mold after a major weather event begins with understanding how and why it grows. Mold spores exist naturally in the environment, but they require moisture to activate and spread. Once a storm compromises a building—whether through roof leaks, broken windows, or rising floodwaters—those spores find the conditions they need. The combination of moisture, warmth, and organic material creates the perfect environment for growth.
The first step in mold prevention is water removal. Any standing water inside a structure must be eliminated as soon as possible. Pumps, wet vacuums, and absorbent materials are used to remove visible water. But the job doesn’t end there. Water that has seeped beneath flooring, into drywall, or behind cabinets is less visible but just as dangerous. Moisture trapped in these areas provides a fertile breeding ground for mold colonies.
Once the bulk of the water is removed, drying becomes the priority. This is not a job for fans alone. Industrial-grade air movers and commercial dehumidifiers are necessary to draw moisture out of walls, floors, and structural supports. Even materials that seem dry to the touch may still contain dangerous levels of moisture beneath the surface. Tools like moisture meters and infrared imaging help identify hidden dampness that can’t be seen with the naked eye.
In many cases, porous materials must be removed. Drywall, carpet, insulation, and certain ceiling tiles are especially vulnerable. If these materials have absorbed water, they can rarely be salvaged. Leaving them in place increases the chance that mold will take hold behind the walls or under the floor. Removing compromised materials early reduces the chance of long-term issues and improves access for drying and sanitizing hard-to-reach areas.
After drying comes sanitization. All exposed surfaces should be cleaned with EPA-registered antimicrobial agents. This includes framing, subflooring, concrete, and any surfaces that were in contact with floodwater, especially in cases where water may have been contaminated with sewage or industrial runoff. Proper application ensures that any residual bacteria, viruses, or spores are neutralized before mold has a chance to spread.
Ventilation plays a crucial role during this phase. Closed spaces like closets, crawlspaces, and attics are particularly vulnerable to moisture retention. Keeping these areas ventilated with fans or open air flow—when outdoor conditions allow—helps prevent the accumulation of stagnant air, which promotes microbial growth. HVAC systems should be inspected as well, since mold can spread through ducts if they are reactivated without being cleaned.
Additional protection can be achieved through the use of mold-resistant coatings. After drying and cleaning, applying a mold-inhibiting sealant to exposed wood or framing provides an extra line of defense. These coatings are designed to resist moisture absorption and prevent spores from taking root. While not a substitute for proper cleanup, they serve as a precaution for properties in high-risk flood zones.
Monitoring continues long after the initial cleanup. High humidity levels indoors create ongoing risk. Hygrometers can be used to measure relative humidity in affected rooms. Keeping levels below 50% reduces the likelihood of mold returning. Dehumidifiers may need to run for days or even weeks after a storm, depending on the structure and materials used.
Post-storm environments present a perfect storm of vulnerabilities: compromised power, limited airflow, high humidity, and often restricted access to equipment. Every minute counts. Delaying cleanup efforts gives mold a head start that can turn a manageable situation into a major remediation project. Mold doesn’t wait for visible signs. Once it takes hold, it often spreads behind walls, into ceilings, and throughout insulation—places that are difficult to treat without major demolition.
Waste disposal is another factor to consider. Water-damaged and mold-prone materials must be disposed of according to local and environmental regulations. This includes drywall, insulation, carpets, mattresses, and certain types of furniture. Safe disposal practices prevent the spread of mold spores and reduce environmental contamination.
Proper documentation of the cleanup process is also important. Taking photos, logging moisture readings, and recording all sanitation steps can be useful for insurance claims and potential inspections. Demonstrating that immediate and appropriate steps were taken can help avoid delays or denials in coverage related to mold damage.
Hurricanes and storms are a fact of life in southern Louisiana, and so is the potential for mold that follows in their wake. The difference between a temporary inconvenience and a long-term health hazard often comes down to timing, preparedness, and thoroughness. Understanding the importance of each phase—from water extraction and drying to sanitation and monitoring—can mean the difference between full restoration and a complete gut renovation.
Mold prevention is not simply a cleanup task; it is a critical process that protects the health of buildings and the people inside them. With the right procedures and immediate action, long-term damage can be avoided, and properties can return to safety and functionality much faster.
