Using an Indoor Environmental Specialist To Determine the Presence of Mold

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

Perform a mold test will determine which type of mold is and the process of cleaning.

When you walk into your building, do you smell something musky or damp? That smell could be mold, but it is challenging to know for certain if you cannot find the source. An indoor environmental specialist, like those employed at mold remediations companies in Washington, NC, can help you find the source of the smell and identify whether the problem is mold. These professionals do these in one of a few ways, including:

• Taking a physical sample of the growth
• Performing an air reading for mold spores
• Taking a sample of the area
  

Each method will provide varying results, especially of any level of certainty. However, the most effective method to test for mold is taking a sample of the growth and sending it to an off-site lab. Off-site testing is unnecessary for every situation, but if the mold looks suspicious or toxic, an involved mold test will provide the best analysis.

Why Perform a Test?

A test to determine the species of mold is sometimes necessary to determine the correct cleaning methods. There is little need for additional testing or protection for typical mold growth because it is relatively safe and will not harm a person when inhaled.

However, as any indoor environmental specialist will explain, some mold infestations require safety precautions to protect the workers and the property. Toxic black mold, for instance, is a substance with several state regulations regarding proper collection, removal, and disposal.

Testing the substance is just a way to ensure safety and maintain state and health department regulations. Beyond keeping everyone safe, a test can help determine the size and spread of the infestation. For widespread growth, a remediation specialist will want to seal off the main area.

Additionally, the primary reason for performing a mold test is when there are no visible signs of mold. An air quality test can help a remediation professional determine if there is mold in the area. It is best to go with a professional for such a test rather than purchasing a test kit at a store because commercially available kits are not the most accurate and can be challenging to interpret.

Mold spores are always present. Therefore, it is possible for purchased mold kits to provide a false positive for an infestation. An indoor environmental professional can help you determine when the mold levels require remediation.

Mold Remediation

If your building requires mold remediation, do not do it yourself. Hire a remediation service. These companies are aware of all the safety and removal protocols for mold, meaning you do not risk any fines from environmental agencies. Additionally, your insurance provider might require professional remediation to ensure the problem is resolved; failing to comply could result in the elimination of your policy.

Any time you believe you have a mold problem but cannot find any visible clues, you should contact an indoor environmental specialist to test the property's air quality. If mold is found, consider hiring a professional for removal to protect your building and business. DIY methods are usually never adequate for effective mold removal.