Resource
Water Damage and Mould Growth
The relationship between damp materials and microbial growth, explained plainly.
Growth needs moisture and material
Mould requires a food source and moisture. Building materials such as drywall paper, wood and dust on any surface supply the food; water damage supplies the rest.
Concealed spaces are the concern
Wall cavities, under-floor assemblies and crawl spaces combine damp material with still air, which is why growth is often well established before anyone notices.
Prevention is moisture control
Rapid extraction, controlled drying and verified completion remove the condition that supports growth. There is no treatment that substitutes for drying the material.
When growth is already present
Remediation combines containment, removal of affected porous materials, detail cleaning and correction of the moisture source. Coating over growth does not resolve it.
Ongoing humidity
Basements and crawl spaces that stay humid year-round can support growth without any water event. Managing relative humidity in those spaces is part of prevention.
This guide is general information for Scarborough property owners and occupants. Conditions at your property should be assessed individually.