Having mold in your home or building can have significant health implications, particularly for children, elderly people and those with weak immune systems. It can also cause damage to property and decrease property values.
Mold inspections can reveal areas of moisture in the home that are conducive to growth and pinpoint the source. They include moisture mapping and air and surface testing.
Water Damage
Molds often lead to various health problems, including respiratory issues, allergic reactions (such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin rashes), and more severe conditions like chronic fatigue and debilitating headaches. In addition, mold growth can also cause damage to the property.
A mold inspection Portland can help you spot the signs and determine if a property is infested. The inspector can look for wood rot, water stains, and other indications of mold growth. The inspector can also use their nose to detect moldy odors.
Most mold testing involves taking air or surface samples to determine the level of spores present in the home. It’s important to remember that these tests are snapshot estimates and that spore levels can vary dramatically over time and between different locations. The results are then compared to standards to determine the type and severity of the mold. The inspector can then recommend proper remediation steps.
Illness
Mold growth can cause various symptoms for individuals, especially those with respiratory issues or weakened immune systems. Symptoms include itchy eyes, runny nose, sneezing, congestion, and wheezing. Mold spores also contain mycotoxins, which can have more serious health effects.
A mold inspection will look for visible signs of mold, such as discoloration and musty odors. The inspector will also look for moisture problems. This could involve checking for roof and plumbing leaks, improper sloping that pushes water toward the house, or condensation in hard-to-reach areas.
Once the inspector finds problem areas, they will take air and surface samples. These samples are sent to a laboratory for analysis. They will identify the types and concentrations of mold spores. These tests are usually more expensive than visual inspections, but they can save much money in the long run. They can also prevent costly repairs necessary if mold growth goes unnoticed.
Mold Remediation
When a person suspects mold in their home or business, it’s important to have the mold inspected as soon as possible. This will help the inspector find and identify any areas of concern and determine the best course of action to take.
During a normal mold inspection, the inspector will review the entire house and look for signs of water damage or excessive moisture. They will also check inside walls and ceilings for any signs of mold growth. They may have to remove drywall or paneling to get a closer look.
They will then thoroughly sanitize the area and use fans and dehumidifiers to dry it. They will also use a moisture meter to find areas of excess moisture that might not be visible. Once the space is sanitized and dried, they will retest to confirm that the problem has been resolved. Whether you’re a property owner or a potential buyer, inspecting and treating the mold is essential before putting it on the market. This will ensure that the property’s value doesn’t drop due to a water damage issue caused by untreated mold.
Prevention
Mold spores allowed to grow and spread can hurt a person’s health, even if they don’t experience symptoms such as runny nose or itchy eyes. By having a mold inspection done, the source of the problem can be found and addressed quickly before it becomes a full-blown infestation.
It can also help reduce future problems by pinpointing moisture sources. During the inspection, experts will examine all visible areas of the property and hard-to-reach spaces. They will check for signs of dampness and use moisture meters to locate the source. Once the moisture problem is fixed, the chances of a mold outbreak will be greatly reduced.
Prevention includes keeping the interior of the building dry, repairing any water leaks as soon as possible and maintaining proper ventilation. It’s also a good idea to immediately clean up any flood or major liquid spills and ensure your home has adequate insulation to prevent heat loss that can lead to condensation and moisture.
