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Air samples are taken in at least 2 different areas within the home
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Surface samples can be taken if there is visible mold-like growth
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A visual inspection of the interior & exterior of the home for mold and mositure
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Moisture meter and infrared testing of certain locations detect potential mold-causing water within the walls/floors
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Air samples are taken in at least 2 different areas within the home
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Surface samples can be taken if there is visible mold-like growth
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A home inspection will include a thorough inspection of the entire home (attic space, crawlspace, basement, etc). If there are any visible signs of mold growth, they will be noted in the home inspection report. Therefore, a full MOLD INSPECTION is not needed.
If you would like us to take air samples to see if there is hazardous mold in the air or test visible mold-like growth to see what kind of mold it is, we recommend adding MOLD TESTING to the home inspection.
WHAT IS MOLD?
Mold is found everywhere outside and inside of a home! No matter what you do, mold will always be present around you. It is a type of fungus that grows in multicellular filaments called hyphae. It is a natural part of the environment and plays a crucial role in breaking down dead organic matter, such as fallen leaves and dead trees.
HOW DOES MOLD GROW?
Mold requires moisture, a suitable temperature, and an organic substrate (such as wood, paper, or fabric) to grow. It reproduces through the release of tiny, lightweight spores that can easily become airborne and spread to new areas.
HOW CAN MOLD AFFECT A HOME?
In indoor environments, mold can become a problem when excessive moisture is present, leading to mold growth on various surfaces. Common areas where mold can thrive indoors include damp basements, bathrooms, kitchens, and areas with water leaks or flooding.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF THERE IS HAZARDOUS MOLD IN THE BUILDING?
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Identify and Remove the Source:
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Determine the source of moisture that is promoting mold growth. Common sources include leaks, poor ventilation, or high humidity.
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Address and fix the underlying issue to prevent further mold growth.
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Isolate the Affected Area:
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If the mold is localized to a specific area, isolate it to prevent the spores from spreading to other parts of the home. You can use plastic sheeting to seal off the affected area.
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Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
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When dealing with mold, it's important to protect yourself. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves, a mask, and goggles, to avoid direct contact with mold spores.
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Clean and Remove Mold:
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Clean and remove the mold using appropriate cleaning solutions. Mild soap and water can work for small, isolated areas. For larger or stubborn mold growth, you may need specialized mold cleaners.
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Follow proper cleaning guidelines and procedures. Scrub the affected surfaces, and be thorough to remove all visible mold.
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Dispose of Contaminated Materials:
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If there are materials that cannot be adequately cleaned (e.g., porous materials like drywall), they may need to be removed and properly disposed of. Consult local regulations for proper disposal procedures.
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Improve Ventilation:
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Enhance ventilation in the affected area to reduce humidity levels and discourage future mold growth. Consider using dehumidifiers if necessary.
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Monitor for Recurrence:
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Keep an eye on the previously affected area for any signs of mold recurrence. Address any new leaks or moisture issues promptly.
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Consider Professional Help:
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If the mold problem is extensive or if you have health concerns, it may be advisable to seek professional help. Certified mold remediation specialists can assess the situation, provide guidance, and conduct thorough remediation.
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Re-test:
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After addressing the mold issue, consider re-testing the affected area to ensure that the mold spore levels have been significantly reduced.
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Prevent Future Mold Growth:
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Take preventive measures to avoid future mold growth. This may include regular maintenance, addressing leaks promptly, ensuring proper ventilation, and monitoring indoor humidity levels.
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Potential Health Risks
Associated with Having Mold in a Home
Respiratory Issues
Mold spores can be inhaled, leading to respiratory problems such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and exacerbation of asthma symptoms.
Allergic Reactions
Mold can trigger allergic reactions in susceptible individuals, causing symptoms like sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, and skin rashes.
Mycotoxin Exposure
Certain molds, such as Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold), can produce mycotoxins. Exposure to these toxins may lead to a range of health issues, including headaches, fatigue, and more severe systemic effects in some cases.
Skin Irritation
Direct contact with mold or its spores can cause skin irritation, including redness, itching, and rashes, especially in individuals with sensitive skin.
Sinus Infections
Prolonged exposure to mold can contribute to sinusitis and other upper respiratory infections, leading to symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pain, and headaches.
Immune System Suppression
Mold exposure may weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and other illnesses.
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WHAT WE DO DURING A
Roof
I. The inspector shall inspect from ground level or eaves:
A. The roof covering.
B. The roof drainage system, including gutters and downspouts.
C. The vents, flashings, skylights, chimneys, and any other roof penetrations.
Exterior & Grounds
I. The inspector shall inspect from the ground level:
A. The cladding, flashing and trim.
B. Exterior doors, windows, decks, stoops, steps, stairs, porches, railings, eaves, soffits and fascias.
C. The exterior grading surrounding the building perimeter.
D. Items that penetrate the exterior siding or covering materials.
Basement, Foundation, Crawlspace, and Structure
I. The inspector shall inspect:
A. The foundation, basement, or crawlspace including ventilation.
B. For moisture intrusion
Heating, Cooling & Ventilation
I. The inspector shall inspect:
A. The air handler, circulating fan, and air filter.
B. The condensate pump.
C. Readily visible ductwork.
D. Representative number of supply and return air registers.
E. The central humidifier.
F. The central air conditioning unit.
Plumbing
I. The inspector shall inspect:
A. The readily visible main water line.
B. The readily visible water supply lines.
C. The readily visible drain, waste, and vent pipes.
D. Hot water source.
E. Fixtures such as toilets, faucets, showers, and tubs.
Attic, Ventilation, & Insulation
I. The inspector shall inspect:
A. Insulation.
B. Ventilation of attic spaces.
C. Framing and sheathing.
Interior
I. The inspector shall inspect:
A. The walls, ceilings, floors, doors and windows.
B. The ventilation in the kitchen, bathrooms and laundry.
C. Whole-house ventilation fans
Moisture Humidity and Temperature
I. The inspector shall measure:
A. Moisture of any room or area of the building that has moisture intrusion, water damage, moldy odors, apparent mold growth, or conditions conducive to mold growth.
B. Humidity of any room or area of the building (at the inspector’s discretion).
C. Temperature of any room or area of the building (at the inspector’s discretion).
For the complete standards of practice for our "Mold Inspection" click here
The Process of
Air Sampling
One control air sample is taken from outside the building.
Two air samples will be taken from within the building. This will be in the areas requested by the client or where the home inspector suspects mold could potentially be present.
If additional air samples are wanted within the home, there will be an additional charge for each one. We can also take surface samples upon request (there is an additional charge for each one).
Samples are Mailed to the Laboratory
The samples are carefully resealed after testing and are placed within a FedEx Pak.
The package is dropped off at a FedEx dropbox and will be sent to the laboratory we work with in Orem, Utah.
To learn more about the laboratory we work with, you can scroll down or visit their website at sporecyte.com
Samples are Digitized
The laboratory receives the samples and scans them with image scanners that contain powerful microscope lenses.
The digital images produced by the scanners are then sent to the AI.
Digital Analysis of the Samples
A powerful AI machine will can the images and identify mold spores and air particles.
"The AI has hundreds of thousands of images that industry experts have identified (it's like having multiple mycologist experts working on every one of the air samples all at once)."
- Sporecyte
Once the system presents the results, an analyst evaluates and confirms them. The system then produces a report.
The Laboratory Report
The laboratory's system will compare the air samples taken from within the home with the ones taken outside and will generate a "Mold Evaluation Level Indicator" (if it's a surface sample, a Mold Growth Indicator).
The report will contain several images of the actual samples.
The laboratory will also include recommendations from within the report for the client.
Why we use Sporecyte
There are many mold testing laboratories in the United States, but in our opinion none come close to this company. Here are a few of the reasons:
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AI powered system can analyze 100% of the sample vs the rest of the industry that analyzes 20-30%.
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The reports are sent back to us the day after the laboratory receives the samples.
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The reports include graphs, actual images of the mold spores, and recommendations from the lab.
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The laboratory is located in Utah so shipping doesn't take as long!
Sample Reports
OUR EQUIPMENT
We use Breeze ET air sampling mold for all our mold tests. This equipment is very advanced and provides us with consistent air samples. Here are a few of the main features this pump has:
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Self-calibrating on every test.
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Onboard humidity, temperature, and barometric pressure readings.
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Variable speed motor! 15 LPM at all times for the best accuracy of any mold test.
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Oversized motor for longevity.
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Touch screen interface with step-by-step instructions.
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Auto on/off with timer on board.
OUR QUALIFICATION
Our mold inspectors are also certified home inspectors. Being a certified home inspector there are hundreds of homes that we inspect each year which means we come across a lot of issues that lead to mold growth. This helps us know the best locations to set up the air sampling equipment and when to take surface samples if necessary.
We are also Internachi and ICA2 Certified Mold Inspectors which means we have gone through extensive studying and testing in order to ensure we are well informed about mold, how it grows, and the best way to test for it. Although there are no national, or state requirements for mold testing in idaho, we strive to keep learning about mold so that we can provide the best service possible.
This certification course is approved by IAC2 (International Association of Certified Indoor Air Consultants)