Most mold testing methods are limited in what they can detect and measure. Skilled investigators understand this and avoid relying on testing as the sole means of investigating a potential problem.
In this case, the spore counts from the air samples are typical of clean homes and well within levels periodically measured outside the house. Click the https://acemoldspecialist.com/ to learn more.
Moisture meters are valuable tools for identifying pockets of moisture in materials that can foster mold growth and halt the spread of mold spores, thus saving property values and eliminating health hazards. Hidden moisture in a building or home is often undetectable to the naked eye, even after thorough cleaning and drying. Moisture meters are the most effective way to pinpoint these areas and identify the source of the problem.
A moisture meter measures the moisture content (MC) of materials, such as wood, paper, drywall, plaster and concrete. It can detect hidden moisture that may be present beneath the surface of the material or behind walls and other barriers. The MC is displayed on the meter as a percentage or relative value. Many of these devices also feature color indicators that help to interpret the reading. Green indicates dry; yellow indicates a moderate level of moisture; and red indicates a high level of moisture.
Most moisture meters work by emitting electromagnetic waves into the material being tested. The amplitude of the returned waves is proportional to the MC, and the meter uses this information to calculate the MC. Some of these devices use pins that stick into the material to measure the MC; others are pinless and use a sensor pad to send out the electromagnetic signals. The pinless models are generally preferred as they do not damage the material.
Regardless of the type of moisture meter used, all must be calibrated regularly to ensure accuracy. Calibration is simple and quick, and most manufacturers recommend that the meter be calibrated at least every six months. Using a calibration device that matches the meter to the material being measured – such as a wood equivalency table for pin-type meters – can also help to ensure accurate MC readings.
Moisture meters can be used to detect hidden pockets of mold that are difficult to find with visual inspection alone, and can help narrow down the scope of a mold testing project by helping to prioritize which materials to test. The meter can help to determine whether a material is at a risk for mold growth, and any readings above 17% in wood or 17% in drywall should trigger an immediate investigation.
Visual Inspection
Visual inspection is a quick, inexpensive method for evaluating materials and structures. It can identify visible mold growth, moisture problems and other issues that may not be detectable with other non-destructive testing (NDE) techniques. It can also help determine the cause of a problem, such as a weld that has failed or a water intrusion that is causing disintegration or corrosion.
The most important benefit of a visual inspection is early detection. When mold is identified during the early stages, it can be treated before it becomes a severe problem. This can prevent damage to a property and protect the health of its occupants.
During a visual inspection, a certified professional will look at the surface of each area in the home or business to see if there is any evidence of mold. The inspector will also check for moisture, air flow, stains and other potential signs of mold growth.
If a visual inspection shows possible signs of mold, the inspector will recommend other tests to confirm the findings. These tests can include culture testing, viable sampling, or DNA testing. Culture testing identifies the specific type of mold present, but it can take several days to receive results. DNA testing is a newer technology that can identify the specific type of mold without growing it in a laboratory, but it is not yet widely available.
A professional like Purely Green Environmental understands the growth patterns of different types of mold and how they can affect a property. They can also use their experience to find other potential causes of a mold issue that a visual inspection might miss.
When hiring a mold inspector, make sure they have the necessary certifications to perform a thorough inspection. Also, ask them what equipment they will bring to the job and whether any of it is specialized for use in a mold environment.
Before the mold inspection, it is recommended that you close all doors and windows in your home or business. This will ensure that the air in your home or business is as stable as possible for accurate testing. It is also recommended that you refrain from using cleaning products or disinfectants for 48 hours before your appointment, as these chemicals can mask or change the presence of mold spores. It is also a good idea to shut off any dehumidifiers or air conditioning systems before your appointment.
Air Sampling
Air sampling is one of the most commonly used methods for evaluating the presence of mold. It involves collecting a sample of air and sending it to a lab for analysis. The results will indicate the type and concentration of mold spores present in the sample. It’s important to collect the sample in a controlled environment so that the results will be accurate. This means shutting off fans that exchange indoor-outdoor air and avoiding activities that will increase the dust level in the room.
There are two types of air sampling for mold: ambient and viable. Ambient air samples are analyzed by counting the number of spores found on a microscope slide. This method only accounts for spores and can lead to false negatives.
Viable testing is a more detailed analysis that identifies the exact species of mold present in the sample. The fungi are grown on culture media, which will allow the inspector to determine the specific genus and species of mold that is present in the air. This type of analysis can identify some toxic and allergenic molds that are missed by ambient air samples.
In addition to air samples, mycologists also test swabs and tape-lifts for mold species. These are often used to discover hidden or undiscovered mold growth in difficult-to-access areas. This can include behind walls, inside cabinets and in crawl spaces.
Mold spores can cause and aggravate health conditions like allergies, asthma and chronic bronchitis. They can also trigger other health problems over time, including cancer and heart conditions.
If the occupant of a home or business has a known health condition, then a qualified mold inspector may recommend viable air and surface sampling to assess the possible impact of a mold problem. Depending on the severity of the issue, the inspector will decide whether the home or business is safe for occupancy.
The IAC2 mold sampling decision chart and Standards of Practice are helpful tools for determining when to take air and surface samples. However, it is ultimately up to the individual who is experiencing symptoms to make an informed decision and consult a medical professional.
Petri Dish Testing
Some home kits allow you to grow a sample of mold spores for analysis. These kits typically include an envelope for mailing the dish to the lab recommended by the kit manufacturer. Once the results are returned, you can determine what types of molds are growing, which can be helpful in determining the best course of treatment for your home.
The process of using a home petri dish to test for mold is fairly straightforward. Open up the kit, remove the lid from the plastic or glass petri dish and position it on a flat surface in a room where you suspect mold is present. Make sure that the dish is not disturbed for two days or the length of time suggested by the kit’s manufacturer. During this time, try to limit movement in the room so that air infiltration is as minimal as possible.
After two days, check the dish for signs of mold growth. If no mold is found, return the dish to its dark spot and continue to check daily for up to five days. If mold is found, the dish can be sent to a lab for further testing as described in the kit’s instructions.
Suppose the fungus found in the petri dish is Stachybotrys or some other toxigenic species. In that case, you should contact your physician immediately as these can be very dangerous for individuals with weak immune systems and respiratory issues such as asthma. However, most molds tested for by petri dishes are not the same as the types of fungus that can be found in homes and they may not correlate to health problems.
A professional mold investigator will collect calibrated air samples throughout your home, usually in multiple areas, and close all of the air vents during the sampling period. They will also take a sample outside for comparison and provide you with detailed information regarding each of the mold spores that were detected in your home. A professional’s information will tell you the types of fungus found and the quantity. In addition, you will be given a list of suggestions to help mitigate the problem.