MOLD INSPECTION SERVICE

There are actually hundreds of kinds of mold in the atmosphere. The good news is that over the centuries, mold and mildews have actually helped produce some fantastic creations such as penicillin, breads, cheese, and also particular liquors. The bad news is that mold and mildews duplicate by sending spores. When they land on a damp place, these spores turn on and also expand.

Outside this is not always a poor circumstance because mold is component of the natural process of decay. When mold intrudes into a residence due to an existing dampness problem, it can get unsightly.

Mold when left unremediated, can create a strong stuffy odor, have a fuzzy look, as well as be mushy in appearance. Not an appealing sight.

Air Sampling - Mold Inspection

The purpose of air sampling is to determine the type and amount of airborne contaminants present. Air sampling is performed when the presence of mold is suspect, due to musty odors and allergies but cannot be determined through the visual inspection. Air sampling is performed on both the indoor and outdoor air for a comparison to determine where problems exist or originate. The indoor sample is taken when the AC or heating systems are in operation to ensure an effective and accurate test.

Tape/Swab Sampling - Mold Inspection

Tape/swab samples are typically collected from visually moldy areas of an interior area using a sterile swab. This type of test is done to determine the type of mold infestation.
 

Mold

Mold or mould, also sometimes referred to as mildew, is a fungal growth that develops on wet materials. Mold is a natural part of the environment and plays an important part in nature by breaking down dead organic matter such as fallen leaves and dead trees; indoors, mold growth should be avoided.

Mold inspection is, for the most part, a visual inspection of a house. ... A typical mold inspection involves the inspector talking to the property owner about any areas where they have seen mold, or where there have been moisture problems or water damage in the past.

Cleanup and removal methods

The purpose of cleanup is to eliminate mold and remove contaminated materials. Killing mold with a biocide is insufficient, since chemicals and proteins causing reactions in humans remain in dead mold. The following methods are used.

• Evaluation: Before remediation, the area is assessed to ensure safety, clean up the entire moldy area, and properly approach the mold. The EPA provides the following instructions:
• HVAC cleaning: Should be done by a trained professional.
• Protective clothing: Includes a half- or full-face respirator mask. Goggles with a half-face respirator mask prevent mold spores from reaching the mucous membranes of the eyes. Disposable hazmat coveralls are available to keep out particles down to one micrometer, and protective suits keep mold spores from entering skin cuts. Gloves are made of rubber, nitrile, polyurethane, or neoprene.
• Dry brushing or agitation device: Wire brushing or sanding is used when microbial growth can be seen on solid wood surfaces such as framing or underlayment (the subfloor).
• Dry-ice blasting: Removes mold from wood and cement; however, this process may spray mold and its byproducts into surrounding air.
• Wet vacuum: Wet vacuuming is used on wet materials, and this method is one of those approved by the EPA.^{[citation needed]}
• Damp wipe: Removal of mold from non-porous surfaces by wiping or scrubbing with water and a detergent and drying quickly.
• HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) vacuum: Used in remediation areas after materials have been dried and contaminated materials removed; collected debris and dust is stored to prevent debris release.
• Debris disposal: Sealed in the remediation area, debris is usually discarded with ordinary construction waste.

 

Contact • Mold Inspection