Mold Inspection Staten Island is a good idea for any home, but especially older homes. Older homes have seen a lot more rain, floods and other wet weather events than newer ones.
Mold inspectors use a variety of tools and processes to identify visible and hidden mould, moisture problems and other factors that lead to or support the growth of mold in a home. These include thermal imaging, hygrometers, moisture meters and spore sampling.
A home inspector may conduct a visual inspection of the property in order to identify areas of moisture intrusion, water damage or apparent mold growth. A specialized home inspector trained in mold testing may also be able to use other non-invasive techniques like a thermal imaging camera, borescope or rotameter.
A mold inspection is an excellent time to address issues that could contribute to a future mold problem, such as a leaky roof or poor ventilation. Mold grows best in damp, dark conditions, so addressing problems like these early on can help prevent a full-blown mold infestation.
Mold spores can be inhaled and may cause respiratory illness, skin irritation and other health problems, especially in those with asthma or other allergies. Some types of mold produce harmful mycotoxins that are toxic to humans. Mold spores also tend to be more prevalent in areas that are not well ventilated, such as basements, crawlspaces and attics.
During a mold inspection, an inspector may take surface samples by using tape to remove small pieces of visible, apparent mold. The samples are then sent to a laboratory for analysis. In some cases, the inspector may also take air samples indoors and outdoors to determine the type of mold spores present. The lab can then recommend the appropriate professional remediation.
Sampling of a suspected area of mold may also be done with a swab, which is typically a cotton swab dipped in liquid preservative. A unique sample number is recorded on the container and the chain of custody document is completed. A home inspector is trained to wear the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) during sampling. This typically includes a respirator, safety glasses and gloves.
When a professional takes air samples, they will usually perform both indoor and outdoor sampling at the same time. The samples are then sent to a lab to determine the type of mold spores and to determine the relative humidity of the indoor space, as this can affect the results. A lab report should indicate the type of mold found and whether it poses a health risk, as different types of mold require different remediation methods.
Testing
A mold inspection is a visual assessment of a home, while testing involves taking samples and sending them to a lab for analysis. The lab will identify the type of mold and the amount, if any. There are two standard types of sampling: non-viable and viable. Non-viable sampling identifies the presence of mold spores, but not the specific species; viable sampling culture the sample to identify both live and dead spores.
A complex mixture of mold particles normally exists in all occupied indoor spaces. Whether those particles pose health risks depends on how much of the particular molds are present, the duration of exposure and the individual’s susceptibility to any that may be inhaled or ingested. Testing cannot distinguish between a normal mixture and a problem, so it should never be used as the basis for dismissing complaints or to defend poor investigation or remediation efforts.
The most common method for testing is surface sampling. This involves swabbing various surfaces in the home for the presence of mold spores. A professional may use a cotton swab, HVAC tape or a specialized brush. If a homeowner wishes, the inspector can treat the samples with a special stain to make the spores easier to identify under a microscope. The cost of this service is typically an extra $100 to $160.
An air sampling test can be more useful than a surface sample because it provides a snapshot of the concentration of spores in the air at a single time and place. It can also be helpful for determining the extent of a problem in hard to reach places like dead air spaces behind walls and under floors.
If a homeowner elects to have an air sample taken, it is recommended that they close all windows and shut off the HVAC system for at least two hours prior to the appointment. This helps maximize the collection of spores for easier identification. It is also advisable to avoid any yard work such as chopping, mowing or pruning, which could disrupt the natural concentration of spores and distort the results.
Remediation
Mold remediation work includes a variety of activities to clean up a home that has been contaminated by mold. This can include the cleanup of the contaminated materials, the restoration and/or repair of damaged building components, and the cleaning and disinfection of affected areas. Remediation work can also include air and surface sampling, assessment of moisture levels and other related activities.
In some cases, a homeowner may need to hire an independent contractor for remediation services. The cost of the remediation will vary depending on the size of the area, type of material and the level of contamination. An inspection is always recommended before beginning any work to determine the severity of the contamination and what, if any, measures need to be taken to prevent future contamination.
The initial visual inspection is important because it allows the inspector to spot visible signs of mold, including spots and stains on carpeting and walls, musty odors and the presence of mold growth in the attic or basement. A good inspector will be able to quickly identify the type of mold and provide recommendations on what needs to be done to resolve the problem.
A laboratory test will confirm the type of mold and provide a detailed report of what conditions are conducive to the growth of mold. The test results will help the inspector determine what, if any, professional remediation is required. The lab report will also help the inspector develop a scope of work for any remediation that is needed.
In order to obtain a laboratory sample, the inspector will use a swab to smear a one-inch square of apparent mold growth in each suspected area. The swab is then returned to the tube and sealed. The unique sample number and location are recorded on a chain-of-custody form.
Air samples can also be used to confirm the type of mold in a home. The ERMI sample, which checks for the presence of settled spores in dust, is also available and allows the inspector to detect species down to the genus (for example, Aspergillus Versicolor). This information can be particularly useful for health compromised individuals.
Prevention
Mold grows in areas that are often hard to reach. Inspectors will check behind walls, under floorboards, in crawlspaces and other hidden areas for signs of a mold problem. This helps them find the source of the mold before it becomes uncontrollable.
A typical mold inspection includes a moisture test and a visual examination. The moisture test involves using a hygrometer to measure the amount of humidity in various parts of the home, including drywall and insulation. High humidity levels indicate that a structure is damp and is conducive to mold growth.
This part of the inspection involves looking for evidence of water damage, such as musty odors and visible mold growth. Inspectors may also use a thermal imaging camera to detect infrared energy leaking from the building, which could be indicative of a hidden leak.
Some types of mold are more dangerous than others, and they may require more advanced testing or analysis. For example, fusarium can cause localized infections in the nails or cornea, while penicillium causes respiratory problems and allergic reactions. These more hazardous molds are more expensive to test for because they require special equipment.
Regardless of what type of mold is present, it’s critical to repair the cause of the moisture problem. Otherwise, the mold will continue to grow and spread throughout the home. In addition, moisture damage can rot wood and other structural materials. Identifying and repairing the source of the mold can save a homeowner from having to raze the home.
While it’s tempting to save money by performing mold testing and remediation on your own, doing so could cost you a lot more in the long run. Mold inspections and testing are specialized jobs that require training, expensive equipment and extensive experience. Even if you can remove the visible mold on your own, professional inspections and testing will provide a full picture of what’s happening in your home so you can take action. This could be as simple as ripping up carpet in a damp basement or installing mold-resistant products to prevent future issues.