Mold is a problem in many homes today and can cause many health problems. This means identifying and resolving the issue is very important. Tests that a home inspector carries out to diagnose a mold problem are generally a visual inspection and surface sampling. Along with those tests, air sampling is another method of mold detection. How does this work?
Mold spores cannot be seen with the naked eye, so air samples are a good way to discover a mold source yet to be detected. Air samples are sent to a laboratory to be analyzed and results reveal if mold is present in the home, they will also reveal the severity of the problem.
Where will air samples normally be taken? Some of the more obvious places would include areas of visible mold and areas where there has been water damage or moisture intrusion. It is also a good idea to take air samples in places that have a musty odor which can suggest mold growth.
Several things can affect air sample readings. For example, if there are extremely high winds or severe thunderstorms, this may affect the test's accuracy. Changes in air pressure also play a role and can alter mold spore levels, giving you an inaccurate reading. It is also best to close windows and doors during the test and switch off any indoor-outdoor air exchangers. Air sampling will be done both before and after mold remediation to check that it has been completely removed.
Yes, when used in conjunction with other tests for mold, air sampling can be a good way to determine mold spore levels in a home.
Mold spores cannot be seen with the naked eye, so air samples are a good way to discover a mold source yet to be detected. Air samples are sent to a laboratory to be analyzed and results reveal if mold is present in the home, they will also reveal the severity of the problem.
Where will air samples normally be taken? Some of the more obvious places would include areas of visible mold and areas where there has been water damage or moisture intrusion. It is also a good idea to take air samples in places that have a musty odor which can suggest mold growth.
Several things can affect air sample readings. For example, if there are extremely high winds or severe thunderstorms, this may affect the test's accuracy. Changes in air pressure also play a role and can alter mold spore levels, giving you an inaccurate reading. It is also best to close windows and doors during the test and switch off any indoor-outdoor air exchangers. Air sampling will be done both before and after mold remediation to check that it has been completely removed.
Yes, when used in conjunction with other tests for mold, air sampling can be a good way to determine mold spore levels in a home.
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