Mold Testing
Testing for mold is both a simple and a complex undertaking. The simply application is known as: direct analysis or “surface sampling.” This method is used to confirm or deny the existence of mold growth in a suspect area.
Upon collection, the sample is forwarded to an independent laboratory for analysis. If no fungal growth is detected, no further action is needed. But, if fungal growth is detected, the complex undertaking begins.
The type of mold collected will help to determine what building materials are affected and give clues regarding the water infiltration.
The information contained in the mold testing laboratory analysis, along with visual information gathered during the inspection and clues revealed in the property’s history will help to determine the next step.
Is there enough information to move forward in determining a remediation/correction protocol? If not, and questions still remain, air quality testing is generally recommended.
Air Quality Testing
While most of our projects are initiated by a visibly affected area of mold growth, fungal organisms are microscopic and not visible to the naked eye. As many as a ¼ of a million spores can fit on the head of a pin. That means 2 things:
- By the time that you can visibly observe mold growth, there are millions of spores present.
- A fungal amplification site (indoor mold issue) begins long before it can be observed.
Fortunately, using proper testing techniques, this “invisible” danger can be detected.
Our inspectors are experienced with the proper methods to collect accurate results during the mold testing process, and our staff is certified to provide fungal data interpretation, and translate these results.
A tremendous amount of information is revealed by the data provided by the laboratory. Using this information, we can determine the type of building materials affected, the extent of mold growth throughout the property/dwelling, and what techniques are required to correct the mold issue.
Clearance Testing
In addition to testing an area to determine if mold remediation is necessary, testing and analysis can also be conducted to determine if a mold remediation project is successful.
Mold is a naturally occurring part of the outdoor environment and helps to break down dead/decaying plant and animal material. With the proper moisture and a hospitable environment, any organic material is subject to mold growth.
As a result, mold will make its way into your property via transfer and even the cleanest/newest homes will have a detectable level of mold onsite.
It’s not until mold is originating inside the property that it creates a hazard for your property.
Clearance testing and analysis determines whether the indoor air quality is suitable, or if the hazard remains.
Rather than focus on one aspect of mold as an indoor air quality hazard, the Environmental Consulting and Contracting Group prides itself on incorporating all of the relevant aspects in order to provide the best service available.