Is Mold Dangerous?

Mold is a fungus that disseminates through the air as spores, eventually settling on organic materials where they become apparent as they grow. Mold usually looks like fuzzy splotches and can be virtually any color, including white, green, yellow, and black. Some types of black mold are more often considered a health risk and can induce allergic reactions in some people and animals. The biggest threat is the damage mold can do on a house. Not only is the fungus ugly and produces a musty odor, but there are also many common materials used to build homes and belongings inside that it will occupy and eat. Over time, the fungus can spread throughout the house and damage many of the crucial structural components, including:

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

Mold testing is urgently suggested before you buy a house or if you currently live inside a house with apparent signs of mold growth and odor. The risk is that the fungus can spread widely, becoming more expensive to eliminate and resulting in more damage to a home over time. A professional mold inspector has the extensive knowledge and testing equipment to assess surfaces and air for mold spores you cannot see. A sufficient mold inspection service will provide prospective homebuyers with the information required to make informed decisions about their investment and give current homeowners knowledge into what needs to be done to prevent further spread of the fungus and eliminate it altogether.

Some clients inquire if a mold inspection service can evaluate people for exposure to the fungus, but this is not within the scope of a home mold inspector and should be performed by your doctor through dermal and blood screening. If you suspect or know that you or a family member has been exposed to mold, talk to your doctor about the dangers and to know if any personal testing is warranted.

How Is a Competent Mold Inspection Performed?

A vetted mold inspection service is your best resource to assess the severity of mold infestation and devise a remediation plan moving forward. Mold testing with Pillar To Post™ comes with the benefit of the top technology and techniques in the industry for added assurance. The way your mold inspector carries out testing may vary from house to house, but will typically involve the following:

• Initial Assessment: The mold inspector gathers information from the current homeowner regarding any visible mold growth, water leaks, or indoor air quality issues. Musty smells or health effects presented by individuals will also be assessed.
• Visual Inspection: A complete visual examination of the property is performed, including throughout both the inside and exterior areas. The mold inspector searches for apparent signs of mold growth, water leaks, and other moisture concerns using specialized equipment like moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to detect areas of potential moisture intrusion.
• Moisture detection: Your mold inspector might use moisture detection tools, such as a moisture meter or thermal imaging camera, to locate areas of the home that have abnormal levels of moisture to help recognize areas where mold is likely to grow.
• Air Sampling: Air sampling is often conducted to determine indoor air quality and determine the presence of airborne mold spores. Air pumps and extraction devices are used to capture air samples from various areas of the house. The samples are then sent to a lab for assessment.
• Surface Sampling: If mold infestation is suspected but not obvious, your mold inspector may take surface samples from areas such as walls, ceilings, or other protions. This requires swiping or tape-lifting portions of surfaces, which is also sent to a lab for analysis.
• Documentation and Reporting: Findings are captured, including observations, measurements, sampling points, and analysis findings. A thorough report is generated, summarizing the inspection information, mold species identified, and proposed remedies for cleanup, if necessary.
• Recommendations and Remediation Plan: Depending on the inspection findings, the inspector supplies advice to deal with the mold issues and stop further growth.
• Follow-up and Clearance Testing: A subsequent assessment may be executed to ensure that the cleanup efforts were effective and that the mold issue has been adequately addressed.
• Education and Prevention: The inspector educates the client about mold precaution methods, including proper airflow, humidity management, and care procedures.

Is There Anything I Have To Do In Preparation for a Mold Inspection?

You can follow a few simple steps to assist your mold inspector in conducting a comprehensive and exhaustive home inspection. Actions to refrain from include preparing food, smoking, cleaning with chemicals, or employing air filtration systems to avoid interfering with air measurements that your mold inspector may obtain.

You should guarantee unobstructed access to spaces that your mold inspector will have to access by clearing clutter and obstructions that may hinder the examination. Furthermore, supply appropriate details about any previous water incidents or plumbing problems within the home. It's also useful to document locations of worry with photographs or notes to assist in potential cleanup measures.

Communicate with your local Pillar To Post™ before your mold inspection service appointment to get additional details on how to assist in an thorough inspection.

Make Arrangements For a Mold Inspection Right Away

Mold can establish itself rapidly within a home and degrade many construction materials and household possessions. The fungus also poses a possible health hazard to vulnerable individuals and animals. When searching for mold inspection near your areaNV, opt for Pillar To Post™ to ensure the most accurate findings and a well-defined course forward for cleanup. Safeguard your investment and occupants by scheduling an appointment for mold testing online or by calling 800-294-5591 today.