The Most Recommended Mold Inspection Service in Savage, MN

Is Obtaining a Comprehensive Mold Evaluation Worth the Cost?

The spores of mold are always in the air, only becoming noticeable when conditions are right, and the fungus finds a suitable surface to colonize. The fungus usually thrives in dark and humid locations. Among other things, your expert mold inspector will identify the source of the moisture – whether it's from recently occurring flooding or leaks – to help you develop a course of action for remediation. Mold can be nearly any color, including red, green, yellow, white, and black, which is typically associated with a particularly toxic species, Stachybotrys chartarum, known to induce dangerous health effects in certain individuals and animals.

Though this fungus is not hazardous for most people, it does result in serious aesthetic issues and a damp odor. Even more concerning, the fungus eats the surfaces that it colonizes, ruining materials and degrading the structural integrity of a building over time. It feeds on cellulose materials that are frequent in just about every household, including:

• Drywall
• Wood
• Carpet
• Insulation
• Ceiling tiles
• Wallpaper
• Fabrics
• Upholstery
• Some Painted surfaces
• Paper
• Cardboard
• And More

Mold testing is urgently suggested when buying a home or if you currently dwell inside a house with apparent signs of mold growth and odor. The danger is that the fungus can spread widely, becoming more expensive to eliminate and resulting in more damage to a home as time goes on. A skilled mold inspector has the proper knowledge and testing equipment to evaluate surfaces and the surrounding environment for mold spores not otherwise seen. A satisfactory mold inspection service will provide prospective homebuyers with the information needed to make smart decisions about their investment and give current homeowners information into what needs to be done to halt further spread of the fungus and remove it completely.

Some clients inquire if a mold inspection service can evaluate people for contact with the fungus, but this is outside the scope of a home mold inspector and should be performed by your doctor through dermal and blood screening. If you suspect or discover that you or your family has been exposed to mold, consult with your doctor about the dangers and to know if any personal testing is necessary.

What Is a Mold Inspection?

A vetted mold inspection service typically involves a detailed examination of a property to identify the presence of mold and determine the scope of the issue. The particular procedures for a dependable mold inspection may change depending on the house size, but usually includes:

• Initial Assessment: The mold inspector acquires data about the home, any noted mold issues, and your worries during the initial consultation to formulate a plan for mold testing.
• Visual Inspection: An extensive visual evaluation of the house is performed, including around both the interior and outside areas. The mold inspector searches for detectable signs of mold growth, water leakage, and other moisture problems using specialized equipment like moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to discern areas of potential moisture intrusion.
• Moisture detection: Assessing moisture levels is essential in identifying potential sources of mold growth. Humidity sensors and other specialized equipment are used to analyze the moisture levels inside building materials and identify areas with high humidity or water intrusion behind walls, under flooring, or in other concealed areas. Heat-sensing equipment may be used to locate areas where mold growth may be occurring.
• Air Sampling: Air sampling is often carried out to assess indoor air quality and confirm the presence of floating mold spores. Air pumps and extraction tools are employed to gather air samples from various areas of the home. These samples will be forwarded to a laboratory for assessment.
• Surface Sampling: If mold growth is presumed but not readily apparent, your mold inspector could recover surface samples from areas such as walls, ceilings, or other surfaces. This involves swabbing or tape-lifting areas of surfaces, which are then forwarded to a laboratory for analysis.
• Documentation and Reporting: The mold inspector prepares a elaborate report outlining their discoveries. The report usually includes data on areas of mold growth, moisture sources, mold varieties present (if detected), and recommendations for mitigation or further actions.
• Recommendations and Remediation Plan: Based on the inspection results, the inspector offers recommendations to address the mold problem and halt further growth.
• Follow-up and Clearance Testing: After restoration efforts, the inspector may perform a post-remediation inspection to ensure that the mold issue has been thoroughly addressed. Final testing may be carried out to assure you that the indoor environment meets safe mold spore levels and is protected for occupants.
• Education and Prevention: The inspector guides the client about mold precaution measures, including appropriate airflow, moisture control, and maintenance practices.

How Can I Assist in a Smooth Mold Inspection On the Day the Inspector Arrives?

You do not need to do much in preparation for a mold inspection apart from making sure that your inspector can easily access parts of the home where you suspect mold growth. It is also suggested to arrange for pets to be outside of the home throughout the testing period to make sure that the results of the test are not influenced by pet dander or additional allergens.

Examples of activities you should avoid partaking in to ensure the reliability of the inspection include:

• Avoid cleaning with chemicals in any rooms within the house where you suspect mold growth to be present.
• Do not use air pumps or air filters when the testing is being conducted, as these can degrade the accuracy of the data.
• If feasible, refrain from engaging in tasks like cooking, smoking, or using chemical-releasing substances in the indoor environment for a minimum of 24 hours before the test. This measure will help in avoiding the test data from being impacted by additional airborne contaminants.

It is also advised you keep all windows and doors closed for a minimum of 12 hours before the test. This measure ensures that the environment inside the home stays still and correctly represents the typical indoor air quality. By adhering to these guidelines, you will enhance the precision of your mold inspection service and testing.

Call Pillar To Post™ in Savage, MN Today

Mold can establish itself quickly within a residence and consume many construction materials and personal possessions. The fungus also poses a potential health risk to at-risk individuals and animals. When searching for mold inspection near Savage, MN, choose Pillar To Post™ to obtain the most accurate results and a clear course forward for remediation. Protect your investment and inhabitants by scheduling an appointment for mold testing online or by dialing 800-294-5591 now.