Mold Testing
Don’t Let Mold Overtake Your Home
Mold Testing
What is Mold?
Mold consists of spores that are capable of traveling through the air. Mold creates mycotoxins. Mycotoxins are dangerous organisms that attack the immune system and can endanger your health. Some molds, like black mold, have a very visible appearance and are easy to detect. However other molds are more difficult to trace. Signs that you may have these kinds of mold in your house can be a musty smell, or even beginning to experience health issues such as headaches, skin irritations, persistent coughing or wheezing, breathing difficulties, or respiratory infections.
Do you need a Mold Test?
Mold testing is not needed as a regular part of maintaining your home. However, if you are in the process of purchasing a home, it could be a good idea to have mold testing done. Other reasons you may need to consider having a mold test done is if you have begun to experience unexplained respiratory issues, have recently had a plumbing leak or moisture issues, or if you having landlord tenant issues where the dispute is over mold.
All homes have some level of mold in them throughout the house. However, it is normally in a dormant state. Mold only becomes an issue in damp, warm areas where the usually dormant spores activate. Once activated, these bacterial colonies can quickly grow and spread if left untreated.
Types of Mold Tests
Air Sampling Test
Because mold spores travel through the air, one effective method of mold testing is through Air Sampling. Performing this test forces air through a passage and over a sticky surface. If there are mold spores in the air, they attach to the sticky surface. The sample is then sent to a lab for observation and identification of the mold type.
Mold Swab Test
Mold swabbing involves skimming a surface that is suspected of containing mold growth with a cotton swab. The sample is then contained in an air-tight container and sent to a lab for observation and identification of the mold. After expert analysis, a report will be generated on the mold growth.