Do I Need A Mold Inspection?
Though mold is everywhere around us indoors and out, discovering its presence is no less unsettling. Mold can be a quiet and sneaky invader that develops in places unseen, making it more difficult to determine its presence until it has grown into a larger issue. Mold not only has the potential to harm the health of those who are susceptible to its existence but can also deteriorate building material and structures. These factors make inspecting for mold an incredibly important part of owning a home or business.
Mold is a fungus that depends on moisture. It spreads through spores in the air and are harmless in small amounts. When these spores find a damp place in your home or business, they can grow and release harmful spores. There are more than one hundred thousand distinct kinds of molds, and some present genuine wellbeing risks.
Mold can have damaging health effects. It can cause a runny nose, breathing issues, eye irritation and sore throat. Responses can be progressively extreme for individuals with existing respiratory conditions and even create symptoms in otherwise healthy individuals. Those with asthma are most vulnerable to the effects of mold and can experience a worsening of symptoms with the presence of mold.
Smell & Sight
The most obvious signs of mold are its distinct musty smell or its unattractive appearance on walls, floors or ceilings. Many times, mold is not able to be seen but can only be smelled. By turning off the HVAC system and waiting a few hours, you may be able to detect where the scent is the strongest and this could be the possible source. Usually when mold becomes apparent by smell or sight, it has developed into a larger issue that will need mold remediation. A mold inspection will be able to discern the levels of severity though.
Water Damage
If you have noticed evidence of water damage for over 24 hours, there is more than likely mold growth. A mold inspection will probably be necessary to assess the situation. Locating a potential water source like a leak or cracked pipe will be critical in the inspection so that the root cause can be repaired so that mold cannot continue to prosper. Mold also requires humidity to thrive and its worthwhile to note that even with a water source, mold may not spread as much if humidity levels are below 60% on a humidity reader.
Most mold inspections can include a thorough visual assessment of the structure in addition to collecting air and surface samples. Those samples are then tested to determine the type and amount of mold present. Professional mold testing can eliminate the guesswork when it comes to mold. The sooner mold is identified, the quicker it can be prohibited from spreading to other areas of your home or business.
For a consultation and to schedule an appointment contact us today at 561-990-6653