Water damage can (and tends to) strike when you least expect it—whether from heavy storms, burst pipes, or flooding.
In New Jersey, where hurricanes, nor’easters, and humid summers can create the perfect environment for mold spores, you must act quickly after water damage. Mold and mildew cause structural damage to your home, but just as concerningly, they can also trigger serious health issues.
It’s estimated that about two-thirds of people in the USA have experienced mold of some form in their homes, and almost a quarter say they’ve experienced a serious mold issue. It might seem like a rare problem, but trust us: it’s more common than you think.
If you’re dealing with water damage and want to prevent mold and mildew growth—or if you’ve already spotted signs of a problem—this guide will help. Below, we’ll answer common questions and provide actionable steps to protect your home and health.
Why Does Mold Grow After Water Damage?
Mold thrives in damp environments. When water damage occurs, porous materials like drywall, carpeting, and wood can absorb moisture, creating the perfect breeding ground for different types of mold and mildew.
Mold spores are always in the air, but they need moisture and organic material (like wood, paper, or fabric) to grow. As the United States Environmental Protection Agency says, “There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.”
In New Jersey, humidity levels can be high—especially in the summer—which can accelerate the spread of many types of mold spores. If water damage isn’t addressed promptly, we’ve seen mold start to form within as little as 24 to 48 hours.
What Are the Signs of Mold From Water Damage?
Unfortunately, mold doesn’t always announce its arrival after damage. You might not see it right away, which can give the infestation time to spread and worsen after a flood, leak, or bad weather.
Keep your eye out and pay close attention. If you’ve recently experienced moisture-related damage, watch for these critical warning signs:
- Musty Smell – A persistent, earthy odor often indicates hidden mold.
- Visible Discoloration – Mold can appear as black, olive green, white, or gray patches on walls, ceilings, or floors.
- Peeling or Warping – Moisture-damaged walls or floors may bubble, crack, or warp
- Health Symptoms – Allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and skin irritation can be triggered by mold exposure
- Condensation or Dampness – If your home still feels humid or damp long after the water damage occurred, mold may already be growing.
Where to Look for Mold
Keep in mind that mold often grows in hidden and unexpected areas, including behind walls, under carpets, inside air ducts, and behind appliances where moisture accumulates. It’s also commonly found on ceiling tiles, especially if there has been a roof leak or high humidity levels.
Bathrooms, basements, and kitchens are particularly vulnerable due to frequent moisture exposure, but even less obvious areas like closets, attics, and window sills can harbor mold if conditions are right.
What Health Risks Are Associated With Mold Damage?
Mold exposure can lead to a range of health concerns, especially for those with allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems. The longer mold damage is present, the more severe the symptoms can become.
Respiratory Problems
Poor indoor air quality caused by mold spores can significantly impact respiratory health. The World Health Organization, the National Academy of Medicine, and the National Toxicology Program (NTP) all confirm that occupants of damp, moldy buildings have an increased chance of breathing problems.
Exposure to mold can lead to chronic coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath, particularly for individuals with pre-existing conditions. Over time, prolonged exposure to mold spores may even contribute to lung disease, making it harder to breathe and increasing susceptibility to respiratory infections.
Allergic Reactions
Did you know that between 3% and 10% of people have a mold allergy, according to the Allergy & Asthma Network?
Mold spores can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, leading to symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, and skin rashes. These reactions can be particularly severe during times of high humidity when mold growth is more active.
Asthma Flare-Ups
For those with asthma, mold exposure can worsen symptoms and lead to more frequent asthma attacks. Mold spores act as irritants that inflame the airways, causing difficulty breathing, chest tightness, and increased reliance on medication.
New research from the UC Berkeley School of Public Health also found that childhood exposure to household mold increases the risk for asthma, especially in young boys.
Toxic Mold Effects
Certain types of mold, like black mold, can produce mycotoxins that cause adverse health effects when inhaled or touched. Symptoms of toxic mold exposure may include dizziness, memory issues, chronic fatigue, and even neurological problems in severe cases.
While not all molds are toxic, long-term exposure to high concentrations of mold spores can have serious consequences for overall health.
How Can I Prevent Mold Growth After Water Damage?
Mold can start spreading in as little as one day, which makes swift action essential. Even small, hidden water leaks can lead to significant mold problems over time.
Follow these preventive measures to reduce the risk of mold after water damage:
1. Remove Water Immediately
The longer the water sits, the greater the chance of mold growth. Use:
- A wet/dry vacuum to extract standing water.
- Pumps or sump pumps if flooding is extensive.
- Mops and towels for small leaks.
2. Dry Out Affected Areas
Once the standing water is removed, you must completely dry everything to prevent mold from appearing:
- Open windows and doors to increase airflow.
- Use high-powered fans and dehumidifiers to remove excess moisture.
- Run the air conditioner to help control indoor humidity levels.
New Jersey’s humid summers can make drying more difficult, so consider renting industrial dehumidifiers to prevent mold if necessary.
3. Remove and Replace Damaged Materials
Certain materials can harbor mold even after drying:
- Carpeting and padding should be removed if saturated.
- Drywall and insulation may need replacing if they remain damp.
- Upholstered furniture might not be salvageable if soaked.
4. Clean and Disinfect All Surfaces
Scrub hard surfaces (wood, tile, concrete) with a solution of:
- 1 cup of bleach per gallon of water (wear gloves and a mask when using bleach).
- White vinegar (a natural mold killer).
- Commercial mold cleaners are designed for home use.
Important note: Avoid mixing bleach with ammonia or other cleaners to remove mold, per the Centers for Disease Control. This can create toxic fumes and serious health concerns.
5. Monitor for Mold Growth Over Time
Even after cleanup, mold can reappear. Keep an eye out for new stains, odors, or dampness, and use a moisture meter to check hidden areas.
What Should I Do If Mold Has Already Started Growing?
If you’ve already noticed indoor mold, act fast to prevent further spread. Mold can damage surfaces, weaken structures, and pose serious health risks, so taking the right steps quickly matters.
1. Identify the Type and Extent of Mold
Some mold infestations are manageable with DIY methods, but extensive mold growth (over 10 square feet) may require professional remediation.
2. Try DIY Mold Removal for Small Areas
For minor mold spots (less than 10 sq. ft.), you can:
- Scrub the affected area with a bleach or vinegar solution.
- Use a mold-killing spray from a home improvement store.
- Dry the area completely to prevent regrowth.
3. Call a Professional Cleaner for Large or Toxic Mold Infestations
If mold covers a large area or appears in HVAC systems, behind walls, or in attics/basements, it’s best to hire a certified mold remediation company like GreenWorks LLC.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Mold Removal in New Jersey?
This depends on your policy. Many standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover the removal of mold unless it results from a “covered peril” like a sudden pipe burst. Mold problems due to gradual leaks, humidity, or poor maintenance are typically not covered.
However, New Jersey homeowners can check with their insurance company to see if they can add mold coverage as an endorsement.
When Should I Call a Professional for Mold Remediation?
You should seek professional help if:
- Mold covers more than 10 square feet.
- You have persistent health symptoms linked to mold exposure.
- The mold is in hard-to-reach areas, like air ducts or behind walls.
- There’s extensive damage, warping, or rotting.
GreenWorks LLC specializes in mold remediation throughout New Jersey. We are pros at identifying mold, safely removing it, and preventing future growth.
How Can I Prevent Future Mold Problems in My New Jersey Home?
Mold remediation isn’t always a one-and-done initiative. Once you’ve dealt with the initial problems, we recommend you take these other steps to prevent future issues:
Fix Water Leaks Immediately
One of the most effective ways to prevent future mold problems is by addressing water leaks right away. Leaky pipes, faulty roof shingles, or gaps around windows and doors can introduce excess moisture into your home, creating the perfect environment for mold to grow.
Control Indoor Humidity
As we’ve mentioned, humidity is a major factor in mold growth, especially in humid areas like basements, kitchens, and bathrooms. Using a dehumidifier can help keep indoor moisture levels below 50%, reducing the likelihood of mold forming. You can also use humidity monitors to track moisture levels in vulnerable areas.
Considering that the frequency of extreme heat and humidity has already doubled in most US locations from 2000 to 2019, this is a concern most homeowners need to stay on top of (Climate Central).
Promote Good Ventilation
Healthy indoor air quality plays a significant role in preventing mold. Proper ventilation allows moisture to escape, reducing the chances of it accumulating in the first place. Regularly opening windows, using ceiling fans, and utilizing exhaust fans can help keep the air in your home circulating and dry.
Pay particular attention to humid areas like bathrooms and kitchens, where moisture is more likely to accumulate. Improving airflow in these areas can significantly reduce moisture buildup and prevent mold growth.
Waterproof Your Basement
In states like New Jersey, basements are particularly vulnerable to water damage and mold growth due to their below-ground location and potential for flooding. Waterproofing your basement is one of the best ways to prevent mold from taking root. Seal cracks in the foundation, install sump pumps, and use waterproofing paints on walls and floors.
Schedule Mold Inspections
Even after taking all the necessary preventive steps, we still recommend scheduling regular mold inspections to catch any potential issues before they worsen. A professional mold remediation company will thoroughly assess your home, including hidden areas like attics, crawl spaces, and behind walls, where mold can be hard to detect.
Need to Remove Mold in Your Home? Contact GreenWorks LLC.
If you’re dealing with visible mold damage, don’t wait—mold spreads faster than you can say, “What’s that weird smell?”
GreenWorks LLC specializes in mold removal, water damage restoration, and moisture control for New Jersey homeowners. Our remediation process confirms that the mold is safely removed and that it can’t easily return.
Don’t let mold or water damage compromise your home’s health and safety. Contact GreenWorks today for mold inspection and reliable remediation services. We’ve helped many homeowners in your position, and we’re ready to step in.
Published: July 31, 2023
Updated: March 31, 2025
