According to the EPA, molds can be found almost anywhere; mold spores can grow on virtually any organic substance, as long as there is air, a food source (wood, drywall, insulation, the house itself, etc), appropriate temperatures, and a source of moisture (roof leaks, plumbing leaks, excess humidity or condensation, sewer back-ups, etc). This means that it is virtually impossible to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment.
However, mold growth can be controlled indoors by controlling moisture indoors. Stop the source of the moisture, and you can stop the growth of mold.
Do you need testing?
NOTE: If a mold-like substance is discovered during a mold inspection or other visual evaluation, the only way to know POSITIVELY if it is mold AND if so, what TYPE of mold it is would be to send a sample to a lab for testing.
Mold testing is appropriate when a mold-like growth needs to be identified absolutely (is it mold or not?) OR when a hidden mold problem is suspected. Red Flags that typically indicate the need for testing include:
- Sewer Back-Ups
- Visible mold-like growth
- Roof or Plumbing leaks
- Musty odor anywhere in the home
- Family member with allergies or other illness
- Poorly maintained or dirty heating and air system
- Evidence of past or present water infiltration (moisture intrusion)
- Cracks in bath tile, missing caulk, failed toilet seals, or leaking drains
If you suspect mold, STOP. Do NO work before calling Holmes Inspection for guidance! In order to confirm that mold has been eliminated, it's important to test BEFORE work begins, then AFTER work has been completed. This will give you a comparison to gauge whether the work was successful in cleaning the mold issue.
If you are concerned about the possibility of the presence of mold in your home, please call us to explain the situation so we can help guide you to the best solution for you and your home OR office - we're here to help …………….