Mold can be anywhere and everywhere at any given time. The biggest problem is how to get rid of it. Homeowners are constantly dealing with mold, which is a common problem in their homes. If there are specific rooms or parts of your home that are susceptible to mold growth, you'll need professionals to implement some sort of mold testing. So, how does mold testing work? Companies like INX Indoor Air Quality are here to guide you through mold remediation, including the testing process. Read more on how it's done and why it's a good idea for your home.
What is Mold Testing?
To get rid of mold, you must first know how bad of a problem it is and how to know if it's even present in your home. Mold testing comes into play to do this. This kind of testing involves using various methods to test the air and surfaces in your home for mold. Mold testing usually happens during the mold inspection process, which occurs before any mold removal. While severe mold growth can be spotted visually, mold spores are small, airborne, and can easily spread throughout your home if left unchecked. Mold testing confirms that mold spores haven't reached other parts of your home and must be done before attempting to contain and remove mold to ensure the problem doesn't return or spread.
How is Mold Testing Done?
Mold professionals have their own ways of doing mold testing but there are really only two main methods to test for mold. Read below on each.
Active Air Sampling
The name can be pretty self explanatory but active air sampling is taking particles in the air, and it involves using a small pump to push air through a filter that traps mold spores. A mold inspector will close all doors and windows in a room to ensure an accurate air test and then set up the air sampler. The air samples are sent to an independent lab for analysis, with results typically available within 48 hours. This analysis shows how much mold is in the air and whether it is likely to spread elsewhere.
Surface Sampling
This is more of a direct method of mold testing in which surface sampling uses tape or swabs to collect surface samples from various parts of the home. These samples are placed in sterile, airtight containers to prevent cross-contamination during storage and transport. Like air samples, surface samples are sent to a lab for analysis. The lab results reveal whether the samples contain mold, how much mold is present, and the type of mold, providing valuable information for effective mold remediation.
Mold Testing vs. Mold Remediation
Mold remediation is often something you'd hear in conversation when getting rid of mold. Mold testing, on the other hand, is just the process of finding out if your home has mold or not. Mold remediation contains so many more details and steps, including testing, inspection, containment, removal, and prevention. The biggest difference between the two terms is that mold testing determines the presence of mold, while mold remediation encompasses all the steps involved in removing and preventing mold.
Why Choose Professional Mold Inspection?
Most people don't think mold is that big of a deal. They also think you can get rid of mold by simply wiping down the affected area. They don't realize the health and property damage risks associated with mold. Without professional help, you may find yourself repeatedly dealing with mold issues. INX Indoor Air Quality is known for its thorough investigations and deep understanding of where water leaks can occur. With over two decades of experience resolving mold problems for homes, commercial properties, and schools, our advanced techniques ensure reliable results.
Top Mold Testing Techniques
Mold testing shouldn't be overwhelming for homeowners or home buyers. Hiring the right team like INX Indoor Air can take the stress away of getting rid of mold through several advanced techniques. Read below some of the ways we do it.
Thorough Inspections
The first step in finding mold is a thorough visual examination of your property. Check areas like basements, laundry rooms, kitchens, and other moisture-prone spots.
Sampling of Air Quality
Professionals collect air samples from different rooms to analyze them in a lab, identifying the type and concentration of mold spores present.
Samplings of Surfaces and Walls
Technicians sample any surface in your home, providing detailed information on mold type and severity.
Moisture Mapping
Using moisture meters and infrared cameras, experts map areas with high moisture levels, revealing hidden leaks and condensation spots.
Using Thermal Image Technology
Thermal imaging detects temperature variations behind walls and under floors, revealing hidden moisture sources and potential mold growth.
Mold Spore Traps
Mold spore traps capture airborne particles, giving professionals detailed information on mold spore concentration in your home.
Addressing the Source of Moisture
Where there's moisture, likely there will be mold. When you're wondering where the mold could be in your home, look for areas that have the most moisture. For instance, mold tends to grow around appliances, leaky foundations, air conditioners, or corners of basements. One of the first thing professionals like INX Indoor Air Quality will do is help create an action plan to eliminate moisture sources and keep mold out of your home.
Common Misconceptions About Mold Testing
There are so many misconceptions about mold testing. Off the bat, many people think mold only happens indoors or within a home's interior. However, mold can happen just as likely on the exterior. Also, some people think that mold only happens in older homes. You can find mold growth in new properties as well.
Summary
Mold is a serious issue that a lot of homeowners don't think about a lot until it's a huge issue. Let professionals like INX Indoor Air come in and do mold testing techniques so you can get the reliable results you need to prevent mold from ever happening again. For homeowners, property managers, and renters, understanding how mold testing works and its importance is essential for maintaining a healthy living environment. If you're interested in keeping your home clean and mold-free, visit our website today to schedule a professional mold inspection and breathe easier knowing your home is in good hands.
