Services
Mold Inspection and Testing
“WITH YOUR HEALH IN MIND”
Step one: Full Mold Inspection and Testing
Our full mold inspection and testing process will be performed by our inspector in two different phases as described below. This process will normally take between 1 and 2 hours depending on the size of property and numbers of required samples for testing.
First phase Visual Mold Inspection:
Our certified inspector will begin the process with an interview of the client to identify problem areas, health issues and legal concerns. A multi-point exterior inspection of the property will be conducted to look for potential microbial growth, unusual humidity levels and water intrusion. The interior inspection will include a visual check for mold in all areas at the property, especially the concerned areas, followed by humidity and temperature readings of each section, and finally an inspection of your HVAC system. Based on the results of the visual mold inspection and interview, recommendations will be made for the sampling process.
Step Two: Lab Testing
Once the mold test samples are completed, they will be shipped immediately to a certified nationwide third-party Microbiology Laboratory. Then the samples are logged into the laboratory and will be analyzed. Upon completion of the microbiology report, the Senior Mold Analyst will compile all the information collected into a final report. The results of the mold test samples will usually be available between 2-3 business days after receipt at the laboratory. In your demand, we can get the lab results within 24 hours but, there is always some extra charge.
Step three: Sending Report and Result Interpretation
The last step in the process is our mold report and recommendations. Once the lab results have been returned, we will provide the final certified report and email it to you that includes also our recommendations and opinions along with the lab result. In most cases, we contact you to discuss any results that need your attention, including any potential follow-up steps and assistance in mold remediation process.
ATTENTION Dave:
Our mold inspection and mold testing services leverage our extensive knowledge of mold and mildew (black mold, black toxic mold, Stachybotrys, and other types of molds) and the conditions conducive to mold growth as well as building construction, air flows, building materials, and heating ventilation and air-conditioning systems.
Everyone is exposed to some mold on a daily basis without evident harm. Whether or not symptoms develop in people exposed to mold depends on the nature of the mold, the exposure level, and the sensitivity of exposed persons. Mold spores primarily cause health problems when they enter the air and are inhaled, especially when spore counts are elevated.
Mold growth can occur within 24-48 hours after any water incident in your home. Leaks can be hidden inside of walls, under cabinets or in your attic. Flooding in your crawlspace, or improper ventilation in your bathroom/kitchen can also provide enough moisture for mold to take root in your home.
The best way to determine whether mold is present in your property, is through inspection and testing. A visual inspection alone will not provide you with the information you may need.
Full mold inspection is a non-destructive visual inspection for mold and conditions that cause mold in properties. The purpose of a mold inspection is to identify and document visible evidence of mold growth, moisture issues, and other suspicious conditions that are indicators of indoor mold growth. With high-tech equipment, we assure no physical damage is ever done to any structure in the property.
What is the Difference between Mold Inspection and Mold Testing?
Mold Inspection
Occurs at the home, where the mold inspector conducts a non-destructive visual inspection of the property. The inspector will also talk to the homeowner about any water damage, leaks, moisture problems, and areas of mold that might have already been discovered.
The purpose of a mold inspection is to identify and document visible evidence of mold growth, moisture issues, and other suspect conditions that are indicators of indoor mold growth. By using the state-of-the-art technology, such as Infrared Thermal Imaging Cameras, Hygrometer Infrared, Moister Meter, Air Sampler and Borescope, no physical damage is ever done to any structure. In case we have doubt about mold exposure inside drywalls or other inaccessible areas, we use Borescope to detect the presence of moisture and mold. The source of moisture may also be determined. This will help to come up with a solution to remedy the issue.
Mold Testing
occurs at an independent laboratory from samples taken at the mold inspection. The samples that have been collected by mold inspector are examined in carefully controlled conditions. The types of molds are identified, as well as how many mold spores are circulating through the air in the home. Our mold inspections will include mold testing as part of the service.
Taking samples during a mold inspection is important for several reasons. Mold spores are not visible to the naked eye, and the types of mold present can often be determined through laboratory analysis of the air samples. Having samples analyzed can also help provide evidence of the scope and severity of a mold problem, as well as aid in assessing human exposure to mold spores. After remediation, new samples are typically taken to help ensure that all mold has been successfully removed.
Air and surface samples can be used to gather data about mold spores present in the interior of a house. These samples are taken by using a pump that forces air through a collection device which catches mold spores and swabs. The sample is then sent off to a laboratory to be analyzed.
When taken under controlled conditions and properly analyzed, samples for mold are helpful in comparing relative particle levels between a problem and a control area. They can also be crucial for comparing particle levels and air quality in an area before and after mold remediation.