Water Damage vs. Mold Damage: Understanding the Difference

Water damage

Water damage is the direct effect of water on materials: swelling, staining, warping and weakening. It begins as soon as materials get wet.

Mould damage

Mould is a living organism that grows on damp organic materials such as drywall paper and wood. It typically appears when materials stay wet or humid for an extended period.

How they connect

Prompt drying after a leak greatly reduces the chance of mould developing. When water damage is ignored or dried incompletely, mould can follow.

How each is addressed

• Water damage: extraction, drying, monitoring and repairs
• Mould: containment, removal of affected materials, cleaning and moisture correction