Mold Expert Warns of Hidden Dangers After Severe Weather

Chicagoland mold remediation expert Barton Robertson is warning property owners about the potential for hidden moisture and mold growth following severe weather events, as National Preparedness Month kicks off in September.

On August 11, a derecho, a straight-line windstorm, produced widespread damage across northeastern Illinois and northwestern Indiana, including eight tornadoes in the Chicago forecast area. Governor JB Pritzker issued a disaster proclamation covering the storms that brought tornadoes, heavy rain, flash flooding, damaging winds, and structural damage to Illinois communities. Barton Robertson, the founder and president of Above Board Indoor Environmental, is concerned about the long-term effects of such events.

"After the immediate danger passes, the real challenges begin," Robertson said. "People focus on the storm itself and the immediate aftermath, but the damage from hidden moisture can linger and lead to serious health issues."

According to Robertson, buildings that appear dry may still have moisture trapped in areas not easily visible, such as behind drywall, beneath flooring, or inside walls and ceilings. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently updated its guidance for people returning to flooded homes, emphasizing the need for moisture meters, fans, and dehumidifiers to address hidden moisture problems.

Robertson stresses that simply cleaning visible mold is insufficient. "Mold isn't just a surface issue. It's evidence of a deeper moisture problem that needs to be addressed," he explained. "Hidden moisture can continue to feed mold growth, making the problem worse over time."

The expert recommends that property owners and managers document any visible water intrusion, identify the points of entry, and assess the condition of materials that may have become wet. Robertson advises seeking professional evaluation if the moisture source is not properly corrected, as prolonged exposure can lead to significant structural damage and health risks.

"A surface can look clean, paint can appear normal, and a room can smell fine, but none of those things tell you what is happening inside the materials," Robertson said. "It’s crucial to understand the true condition of the building before hidden moisture becomes a major issue."

National Preparedness Month, now underway, offers an opportunity to broaden the focus beyond immediate emergency response. "Preparedness should extend to the aftermath," Robertson noted. "Families plan for the initial impact of an emergency, but property owners should also understand what they need to evaluate when they return."

Above Board Indoor Environmental, based in Oswego, Illinois, has over two decades of experience addressing mold and hidden building moisture conditions. Barton Robertson is available for interviews on mold after storms, hidden moisture, post-disaster building conditions, and mold remediation.