How does mold testing work?
Mold testing is a critical step in helping to ensure the safety and integrity of homes and commercial businesses. It helps to identify the source of moisture that is contributing to mold growth and determine whether the fungi are toxic or not.
A professional company will take air and surface samples to find out what type of mold is present in a home or commercial business. This helps to ensure that the proper remediation strategies are used.
Air Sampling
Air sampling is a great way to evaluate the indoor air quality in homes and commercial businesses. This method involves using a small air pump that draws a volume of air over an Air-O-Cell cassette with a sticky slide to catch microscopic particulates and spores.
The sample is sent to a lab for analysis, and then a report is generated. This type of testing is a good way to determine if there are any fungi issues in your home or commercial business, and if so, which ones.
Mold spores are tiny particles that float in the air and travel through air exchangers, fans and other equipment. They can cause a variety of problems for building occupants, including respiratory and allergic symptoms.
Surface Sampling
In homes and commercial businesses, surface sampling is typically performed after an air sample is taken from a suspect area. The inspector uses either a lift (tape) or swab to collect a surface sample and send it to the testing laboratory for analysis.
This is a simple procedure that provides valuable information regarding the types of mold growth, the degree of contamination, and potential for mold spore production. There are several methods of sampling, such as a bio-tape slide or a sterile swab, but the most common is to use a clear cellophane tape with sticky media on one end.
The swab is moistened with a preservative and then rolled over the suspected area before being sent back to the laboratory for analysis. Once the laboratory receives a sample it will then determine what type of mold was present and if it is viable or non-viable. This can be done immediately or within a few days of the sample being collected.
Bulk Sampling
Bulk sampling is a method of mold testing in homes and commercial businesses. It consists of taking a sample of suspected mold-contaminated material, like carpet, wood, or sheetrock, and having it analyzed in the lab for both genus and species of mold.
The lab can also determine if the genus and species of mold on the bulk sample are toxic, pathogenic or allergenic. This is an important step in identifying what types of mold are present because it allows us to better understand your indoor mold problem.
Air samples are taken by pulling a known amount of air through a device with an air pump. Spores are then counted under a microscope to identify spore counts per cubic meter of air.
Inside Comparison
Inside comparison testing is the process of acquiring and comparing air and surface samples. Typically air-o-cell, micro-5, and swab samples are collected, and sent off for microscopic analysis in the lab. The lab results are interpreted and a thorough report generated.
The name of the game is to provide you with information about the problem your home or commercial business is facing, identify the culprit, and recommend a plan of action for correcting it. A well executed plan is a combination of a visual assessment and lab findings that can lead to quick, low cost, and effective remediation. The best way to learn more about mold testing is to give us a call. Our knowledgeable and friendly team members can help you navigate your unique situation. We look forward to hearing from you! The right plan for your home or business is the best step you can take in averting costly mold and water damage.
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If you are in need of professional mold testing, contact us today!