Water Damage Restoration and Mold Remediation on Laurie Drive, Silver Spring, MD 20904

Flood Damage Pro successfully completed a water damage restoration project at a residence in Silver Spring, Maryland. The water damage project began on January 17, 2025, and concluded on January 19, 2025. Lead technician Albert headed the restoration efforts. Below is a breakdown of the project, including a detailed account of each step involved in the restoration process.

The Problem

The homeowner contacted Flood Damage Pro after noticing water damage in her bathroom on the first floor due to a drainage backup. The water had affected several parts of the home, including the bathroom, hallway, and closets.

Although no active leaks were observed, the moisture from the sewage backup had seeped into the materials in these areas, causing them to absorb water and risk potential mold growth. There was a distinct concern about the long-term health risks of the affected areas, especially due to the sewage contamination, which can carry harmful bacteria and pathogens.

The customer's primary concern was the possibility of the water damage spreading further into the structure of her home, as well as the potential for long-term mold issues. While the visible water had already dried up, the damage was not entirely superficial, as there were moisture remnants hidden behind walls and within flooring materials. Immediate action was needed to prevent further complications.

Water Damage Restoration Process

Initial Assessment (Day 1)

The restoration process began with a detailed on-site inspection on January 17, 2025. During this assessment, residual moisture was identified in the bathroom, hallway, and closets, despite no visible leaks being found. Specialized moisture readings were taken to gauge the extent of the damage, confirming that water had affected materials behind walls and flooring. Fortunately, the damage did not require cutting drywall or making major structural modifications.

Containment Setup (Day 1)

A negative pressure containment zone was established at the basement entrance to prevent contaminants from spreading to other areas of the home during the restoration process. This setup controlled the movement of mold spores and moisture, ensuring that the remediation work remained safe and efficient.

Air Scrubber Deployment (Day 1)

To improve the air quality and remove airborne contaminants, an air scrubber was installed in the affected areas. This device ran continuously for 48 hours, from January 17th to 19th to neutralize mold spores and bacteria commonly found after sewage water intrusion. The air scrubber played a crucial role in purifying the environment and ensuring the home remained free from harmful airborne pollutants.

Cleaning and Sanitization (Day 1)

Next, all affected surfaces were cleaned and sanitized, with special attention given to the toilet, shower, and floors. Antimicrobial cleaning solutions were used to eliminate bacteria and prevent mold growth. After cleaning, the areas were left to dry completely to prevent further water damage and ensure the space was free from harmful pathogens.

Antimicrobial Treatment (Day 2)

In addition to cleaning, antimicrobial fogging was applied to treat surfaces with an antimicrobial agent. This process was essential for eliminating remaining bacteria and mold spores, especially given the potential health risks of sewage water. The fogging treatment ensured that all surfaces in the affected areas were thoroughly sanitized.

Equipment Removal and Monitoring (Day 3)

Once the air scrubber had completed its cycle and all antimicrobial treatments were finished, the equipment was removed. Before doing so, a final moisture reading was taken to ensure that moisture levels were within acceptable limits. This step was essential to prevent any lingering moisture that could lead to mold growth or further water damage.

Final Inspection (Day 3)

A final inspection was carried out to ensure the restoration process met Flood Damage Pro's high standards. Visual inspection was conducted to confirm that all surfaces had been cleaned and disinfected. The inspection confirmed that there were no signs of mold or mildew, and the affected areas were fully sanitized. The homeowner was reassured that the property was now safe from any health risks associated with the sewage backup.

What We Found

The primary concern was the hidden moisture within the walls and flooring, as well as the potential for bacteria and mold growth due to the sewage backup. Although there were no immediate signs of active water leaks or severe structural damage, it was crucial to address the issue promptly to avoid future complications. This proactive approach was necessary to prevent the development of mold and safeguard the integrity of the home.

Through careful investigation using moisture meters and thermal imaging, Albert identified pockets of residual moisture that could lead to mold growth if not addressed properly. This underscored the necessity of a comprehensive cleaning, drying, and sanitization process.

The Solution

Comprehensive Cleaning and Sanitation

Our comprehensive approach involved the following steps:

• Disinfection of Surfaces: All surfaces affected by the sewage water were carefully disinfected using specialized antimicrobial products.
• Air Purification: An air scrubber was used to filter out airborne contaminants and ensure healthy air quality.
• Microbial Fogging: The use of microbial fogging to kill bacteria and mold spores in the affected areas.
• Moisture Monitoring: Regular moisture readings were taken throughout the restoration process to ensure proper drying.

Additional Services

During the final stages of the project, the customer inquired about additional services, particularly floor polishing. The technician explained that while Flood Damage Pro specializes in water damage restoration and mold remediation, we don't offer floor polishing services. He recommended that they contact a local company that specializes in floor care for those needs. However, the technician assured her that Flood Damage Pro would be happy to assist with any future water damage or mold remediation requirements.

Quality Control

Before concluding the project, Albert conducted a comprehensive quality control inspection. This included:

• Thermal Imaging: Using a thermal imaging camera to verify moisture levels.
• Air Quality Testing: Ensuring that the air was free from contaminants and safe to breathe.
• Visual Inspection: Confirming that the work met Flood Damage Pro's high standards.

Need Help with Water Damage?

Silver Spring, MD, is a region that experiences its fair share of water damage incidents, particularly due to seasonal flooding and aging plumbing infrastructure. The combination of older homes and unpredictable weather patterns makes water damage restoration a frequent necessity in this area.

If you're experiencing water damage or any related issues in Silver Spring or nearby areas, don't wait to contact Flood Damage Pro. Our team is available 24/7 to assist with emergencies. Whether it's mold remediation, water damage restoration, or sewage cleanup, we provide fast, reliable, and professional services. Call us today at 240-650-4001 for expert assistance and a free consultation.