Mold Testing...we do that
4/17/2018 (Permalink)
Mold Testing
When to have an indoor air quality test done, and how the test is done. The word mold is not as bad as everyone thinks it is. The only time it becomes a problem is when there is too much of it. Too much mold can cause health problems or damage to your property. Not every home needs testing and not all testing is the same.
What sort of things should you be on the look for to decide if you need any mold testing.
Any general concerns about the house where something just does not seem right and you cannot put your finger on it.
When a home has been empty with no occupants for an extended period of time
Past water damage that was not cleaned up by a professional or you suspect was not done properly
No home inspections have been done in a while you see or suspect there is mold somewhere
A musty smell that is notice upon entering the home
Anyone in the home that has repertory problems
Mold Remediation was done and you want to ensure it was effective.
Visually seeing anything that looks like mold
If mold removal or clean up was done
When a 3rd party is effecting repairs and you need to make sure they are done correctly
There are 3 main options for testing
Surface Testing
This is done to look for evidence of actual current or past mold growth. The tester will use either a swab or a tape lift to obtain their sample. These tests can tell if the growth is from actual water damage and intrusion or if it is excessively humid in the home. Dark and discolored growth is not always microbial and would mean it is not from a water damage situation. When you see visual growth it is always important to get a sample of it as well as an air quality sample to ensure spores have not been released into the air.
Indoor air quality testing
This is done by taking numerous samples from within the inside of the home as well as a base line sample of the air quality on the outside of the home. These samples will be able to tell if you have hidden moisture leaks.
Indoor Air Quality with Comprehensive moisture evaluation.
This testing is done to provide a full scope picture of what is really going on in the home. It is able to locate sources of moisture that overtime could damage the property or become a health concern. Mold and moisture damage can drastically affect the value of a home over time. So it is important to stay on top of things and help prevent any major damage. Identifying the damage early can save you in the long run.
Remember when you have any doubts or questions about mold in your home talk to a professional get your results and get it right the first time. Call SERVPRO of Kankakee County for all of your mold testing and mold inspection needs.