Mold is a common problem in homes everywhere. The CDC reports that an estimated 25% of U.S. households have experienced mold within the last year. This pesky fungus can affect your family’s health and even cause structural damage to the building materials it grows on.
That’s why it’s important to have a mold inspection done at least once per year, or more if there’s visible evidence of mold growth or water damage in your home.
Mold Testing Must Be Done Correctly
Mold testing requires a certified lab to ensure accurate results. It’s also important that the mold inspection company is licensed by an independent party, such as a state or federal government agency. Mold tests purchased from the store or online don’t provide the same level of analysis as a thorough mold assessment performed by a licensed professional.
The most common types of mold tests include air samples (cassettes) and surface samples (swabs and tape lifts). Generally speaking, air samples provide more information about what types of molds are present in a given environment than do surface samples, but are more expensive due to the complexity and time involved in properly analyzing them. Surface samples can tell you about the active or inactive mold material present on surfaces tested, but does not provide information on airborne spores unless those spores have landed on the sampled surface within in the past 48 hours.
What Happens During the Mold Inspection?
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The inspector will use a moisture meter and thermal imaging camera to check for hidden moisture.
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The inspector will check for water leaks, which can cause hidden mold growth behind walls and ceilings.
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The inspector will look for visible mold. Even if there is no visible mold, there still may be unseen mold spores in the air.
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The inspector will check the AC system for air flow, so that vents aren’t clogged with dust or pet hair that can harbor molds and bacteria.
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Lastly, the inspector will collect samples to be analyzed by an accredited laboratory to identify what, if any, molds are present.
Should I Have My Home Inspected and Tested?
Mold inspection and testing is an essential part of keeping your home healthy. A Licensed Mold Assessor will thoroughly investigate your home for moisture or mold damage and collect samples for analysis by an independent lab. Mold testing experts can also help with the remediation process, ensuring that no traces of mold are left behind after removal.
If you’re concerned about the presence of mold or want to know what steps you can take to prevent future mold growth, contact Bio Pro today!