By now, you've most likely read about the flooding in Nashville. The damage is extensive, but so is the volunteer spirit. Many of you are pitching in in many ways to help your neighbor, and the efforts must continue as long as there is a need.
Now that the waters have been gone for a few days, and the temperatures have risen, mold growth is inevitable, and has most likely begun. Having first-hand experience with water-damage while working in residential construction, I can offer a few bits of information on the subject.
Mold
Mold will be most prevalent in darker, damper locations. Mold can grow on almost any surface, and can grow inside of porous surfaces. Drywall, carpet, carpet pad, beneath vinyl floors, baseboards and trim, and wood framing are all prime locations for mold to thrive.
Protection
It is imperative that you use adequate protection when working in flooded houses, especially with these materials. At very least, an N95 respirator mask should be used. A half-face negative air respirator is a better choice. Eye protection is also a must. Water droplets can become airborne easily when demolishing building materials. Wear gloves that are waterproof and heavy. Wear heavy rubber boots. Try to keep contaminated materials contained to specific areas, and have a "clean" area where no contaminates are allowed.
Organization
Try to work in some sort of order: carpet, carpet pad, tack strip, baseboard, drywall, insulation. Try not to let the drywall mess get out of hand. It will make things difficult and messy later on. Keeping materials separated helps keep outdoor clean-up efficient.
Clean and Dry
Once wet/contaminated materials are removed, you must dry the affected areas. Get as many high powered fans as you can find. Be sure that they are blowing outward. This will prevent mold spores from being blown around in the building. Using heat to dry is not recommended. Heat combined with moisture encourages mold growth. Additionally, run a dehumidifier to draw moisture from framing and concrete slabs. Treat affected areas with a biocide such as MoldStat, or a mixture of bleach and water. It is important that everything is completely dry and disinfected before rebuilding.
Here are a few links to some flood cleanup information:
We can get this town back in shape in no time if we all keep doing as much as we can, for as long as we can.
We are Nashville, aren't we?
Stay dry,
Mango
