Mold decontamination

When it comes to mold detection tests, homeowners usually ask themselves many questions to determine when it is best to check for mold, whether they can do the tests themselves, or whether they have need a professional. First, know that it is not always necessary to do mold tests; sometimes there are so many in an easily accessible area that you can easily spot it. Other times, however, mold is hidden in hard-to-reach places, such as interior walls, under carpets and in crawl spaces. So tests can confirm its presence and help you locate any mold. To avoid any mold-related problem, it is recommended to have your indoor living space tested once a year.

What are the reasons for a mold test and mold decontamination?

There are a number of reasons why you may need to test your home for mold. Although annual tests can help prevent sudden mold discoveries, they should also be done in the following situations:

You smell moldy in the house (this type of smell is a sign of mold)

Your home has recently been flooded (mold often begins to spread after a flood).

You discover mold in one area of ​​the house (mold spreads quickly and easily throughout the house. If you have mold in part of it, it is recommended that you test the rest of your house in case mold has spread elsewhere).

You or another family member has symptoms of mold-related health problems, such as chronic sinus infections, chronic sore throat, frequent headaches, coughing, wheezing, rashes, or unexplained hives; or incomprehensible fatigue.

You will likely want your home tested for mold if you or another family member has a health problem that can be aggravated by exposure to mold, such as asthma, severe environmental allergies, respiratory or immune system disorders.

You suspect there is hidden mold in your home, but you can’t find it.

How to test your house for mold?

There are different ways to do mold testing. Certain tests verify the presence of mold on a given surface. Other tests check for the presence of mold spores in the air. Besides, air sampling can help you find the hidden mold. For example, if there is mold in your heating and cooling ducts, you may not be able to see it, but mold spores will spread around the room each time you turn on your heater or heater. air conditioner. A test that takes such spores from the air should tell you if mold is present nearby. However, you will still need to locate the exact location.

There are mold tests that homeowners can buy and use themselves, so there is no need to hire a professional to test your home. However, do-it-yourself mold tests are very limited and may not provide accurate results. Improper handling can also give incorrect results.

Professional mold testing and mold decontamination

In general, your home should be tested annually by an expert to avoid health and financial problems for you and your family. Because of this, it is advisable to seek professional help to conduct additional mold tests, especially if you are not sure whether all the mold has been located in your home or if you have any related health problems. .

In fact, most of the professionals performing mold tests are engineers trained to handle such tests competently and seriously in order to guarantee accurate results. In addition, they also know which places should be inspected for any signs of mold. Their tests can tell you what type (s) of mold is growing in your home, useful information for your doctor to work out the best treatment plan for if it causes you health problems. A certified mold checker can also tell you about the expected and safe levels of mold in your home and clearly explain which ones apply to your situation.