People returning to homes flooded during Hurricane Ike should act quickly to combat mold. Experts with the Texas AgriLife Extension Service suggest doing the following:
-Open windows and turn on fans to get fresh air circulating. A dehumidifier can help remove moisture from the air.
-Take an inventory of the damage, using photos to document damage for insurance purposes.
-Make no permanent repairs until an insurance adjuster has reviewed the property and made a record of the damage.
-Remove anything porous that was soaked in the flood. Put moldy material into plastic trash bags for disposal.
-Clean all surfaces to remove mold spores.
-Seal off contaminated areas from the rest of the house as you clean.
-Before closing a wall, use a moisture meter to make sure wood has no more than 14 percent moisture.
Source: Texas AgriLife Extension Service