Mold spores trigger allergies and can even cause asthma in individuals with respiratory problems. It can also be toxic, particularly to children, elderly adults, and immunocompromised individuals.
Mold inspections start with a visual inspection. The inspector will look for evidence of moisture (water) and any visible mold growth.
Identifying Symptoms
Mold spores trigger various health problems in sensitive, allergic, or asthmatic people. Symptoms can range from itchy eyes and skin to breathing complications, such as wheezing. Mold spores also degrade indoor air quality by releasing mycotoxins, which are a variety of chemical compounds that contribute to a musty smell.
Mold inspection Portland, are trained to identify mold through the presence of water stains or musty odors. They’ll also examine areas of the house prone to moisture, such as basements and crawlspaces. They might even use a moisture meter to help them locate excess water within the structure’s walls or wood framing.
If the mold is hidden from view, the inspector can try to find it using tools like a borescope that allows them to see inside plumbing pipes and structural components. Alternatively, they might use thermal imaging to identify damp areas harboring mold growth.
Identifying Sources of Moisture
When mold spores take hold of a damp surface, they grow incredibly. If left unchecked, the spores can cause a full-blown mold infestation. This is why it is so important to have a home inspector look for areas where mold may be present, such as basements and crawlspaces.
The inspector will also check behind walls, inside plumbing fixtures, under flooring, and other places where mold can develop. They can also use air testing or swab samples to get a more in-depth picture of the situation.
The inspector needs to look for the source of the mold. If the underlying problem still needs to be solved, the mold will return, and any remediation efforts will be of little value. The quickest way to solve the problem is to find and stop the source of moisture. It can be as simple as repairing a leak or removing a humidifier that is not functioning correctly.
Identifying Types of Mold
There are thousands of types of mold. Some are more dangerous or toxic than others, but identifying the type of mold in your home requires laboratory testing. Visual indicators such as color can help, but they must be relied upon by others.
When inhaled, mold exposure can cause respiratory symptoms such as runny nose, itchy eyes, and congestion. Professional inspectors may also use a moisture meter and a thermal imaging camera to detect damp areas that are not visible with a regular visual inspection.
Infrared cameras are especially useful in detecting problems inside pipes and structural components where a borescope would be too invasive. A thermal imaging camera lets the inspector see problem areas even when hidden. It can reveal hidden issues, such as water intrusion behind walls or within ceilings and flooring. In addition, air sampling with spore traps or canisters can be used to identify the amount of airborne spores in your home.
Creating a Remediation Plan
Mold growth is usually associated with a source of moisture. Mold spores settle on damp building materials and thrive when they are fed. They can devour ceiling tiles, wood framing, and drywall when left unchecked. It can lead to structural damage and dry rot. Locating and cleaning the affected material is the first step in a successful remediation.
Mold inspectors use various tools to detect hidden moisture sources, such as using a moisture meter behind walls and under flooring. They also check the area for musty odors, water stains, and discoloration.
If the inspector finds evidence of mold, he will take samples for analysis. These may be air or surface samples, including swabbing or tape lifting. The results will identify the types and concentrations of mold spores. The inspector will then recommend a course of action. Moisture is the key to mold growth, and remediation should be focused on solving the underlying problem.
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