Mold Testing
Maypole provides a full-range of Mold Testing options. Different methods may be used depending on the issue(s) you are facing. We are here to walk you through it and put your mind at ease.
Why Is Mold Testing Important?
Over 100,000 types of molds exist and all molds have the potential to cause health effects. Potential health concerns are an important reason to prevent mold growth and to clean up any existing indoor mold growth.
The types and severity of symptoms depend, in part, on the types of mold present, the extent of an individual's exposure, the ages of the individuals, and their existing sensitivities or allergies.
Due to the mass amount of information and inconclusive research on mold and mold exposure, it is important to have your home tested by a mold professional who is educated on the state of the research.
Health Effects of Mold Exposure
Skin Rashes or Irritations
Sneezing
Red or Burning Eyes
Runny Nose
Difficulty Breathing
Headaches
Aggravation of Asthma Symptoms
Potential Chronic Health Effects
Visual Inspection
The inspector will do a thorough visual inspection of the entire space or specific areas of concern. He or she may look for areas of excessive moisture, humidity, or musty odors with the use of hygrometers, moisture meters, and/or infrared cameras. In many cases, if visible mold growth is present it is unnecessary to sample further.
Surface/Bulk Sampling
Surface sampling, through the use of swabs or tape lifts, may help locate the source of mold contamination, identify some of the mold species present and differentiate between mold and soot or dirt. It may also be used to determine if an area has been adequately cleaned or remediated.
Air Sampling
Air sampling, in which samples are taken from the air and later examined under a microscope, is useful if there is an odor present or signs of mold related health issues but no visible mold can be detected. In circumstances where visible mold is present it is unnecessary to perform air sampling, with the exception of determining which types of mold spores are present, in which case air sampling or surface sampling is required.
What type of Mold Inspection do I need?
The type of mold inspection or test performed will depend on the issues and concerns that are present. Some inspections will require multiple sampling methods whereas some inspections will simply consist of an in-depth visual inspection.
Evidence that active growth is occurring is often times sensory, through visual identification or odor perception. Surface testing is used to confirm the present growth. When mold is not visible, air sampling is used with well-designed sampling protocols.
What to Expect
The inspection is just the beginning of the services that Maypole provides. Once the inspection is complete and we receive the results back from the laboratory we will thoroughly review them prior to issuing the inspection report.
We are always here to answer any questions along the way or to discuss the results with you. In the event that mold is found we can also help you navigate the best course of action and your options on how to proceed.
Inspection
Includes:
- review of records and documents
- visual inspection
- photographs of areas of concern
- sampling of suspect materials
- use of hygrometer, moisture meter, and infrared camera as needed
Analysis
Includes:
- analysis of lab results
- written inspection report
- written remediation plan (if necessary)
Consultation
Includes (upon request):
- discussion of results
- explanation of report(s)
- consultation of options
Mold Prevention
Often times small problems can be hidden in hard-to-see areas and grow into larger problems before they are detected.
Early intervention is key!