Must Know Information About Mold Inspections
Mold inspections are essential to rid your home or property of any toxic mold growth. Mold can bring about a myriad of health issues that can be fatal when ignored or undetected.
What are Mold inspections?
A mold inspection is a thorough process in which a certified mold inspector checks for the growth of mold in a building. These specialized experts look for evidence that supports past or present mold growth within locations such as walls, roofs, or elsewhere. It is crucial to understand that the presence of some types of mold is regular, as there is toxic and non-toxic mold. The mold inspector that you hire should tell you the difference and the anticipated ramifications of each. If it is poisonous, they should recommend the best methods of removal.
Who Should Get a Mold Inspection?
The growth of toxic mold can affect not only your health but also that of your family or anyone who spends an extended period in the home. Therefore, mold inspection is a worthwhile investment. Here are those who should always be persistent in hiring a professional mold inspector.
Homeowners
As a homeowner, you should hire a qualified mold inspector once you suspect that there is mold growth in your home. Bringing in a professional may confirm or deny your suspicions and help you towards finding a practical solution to your problem. Mold can grow at various places in your building and grow at a rate of a few hours, up to years. You should ensure its removal as soon as you are aware of its existence.
Home Buyers
Don’t buy a mold-ridden home unknowingly. But if you have, or want to confirm that your home is mold-free, this is where expert mold inspectors come in handy. They will determine if there is mold growth in the house that you intend to invest. Knowledge of mold’s presence or absence places you in a better negotiating position with the seller.
When Should You Get a Mold Inspection?
You can consider getting mold inspections for certain reasons. Here are a few circumstances when getting a mold inspection is a good idea.
Health Issues
It is most advisable to get a mold inspection when you have mold-related health concerns. The symptoms of mold-induced health concerns include headaches, skin irritation, persistent coughing, and sneezing. A mold inspection will confirm whether or not mold growth causes your health problems.
Mold Smell
You can also hire a trained mold inspector when the damp smell of mold is present, but you cannot see its growth. The inspector pinpoints the places where there is mold. With this knowledge, you can find the best mold removal methods.
When Buying a House
Whenever you want to buy a house, you need to check out for any mold growth within it. This calls for a thorough mold inspection. It not only protects your investment as a buyer but helps you determine the home’s worth.
When Selling a Home
When selling a house, it’s crucial to get a mold inspection. Knowledge of mold presence or absence will help you to solve any disputes that might arise later over mold growth. It also gives you the chance to remove the mold before making the sale. A proper inspection ultimately enhances the quality of your services and leads to consumer satisfaction.
After Mold Removal Clearance Testing
A mold inspection is necessary after mold removal clearance testing. It helps to ensure that the previous mold problems have been eliminated.
Various types of molds can attack your home. Some of them are more significant threats than others.
Types of Mold
Different types of mold thrive in certain conditions. Here are some of the most common types of mold that can grow in your home.
Alternaria
This is one of the most popular types of mold found in homes. It comes with brown or dark-green hairs and a velvety texture. It is usually caused by water damage and is most likely going to grow below leaking sinks, bathtubs or showers. Alternaria is highly allergic.
Aureobasidium
This form of mold grows in a black, brown or pink color. It commonly blooms behind wallpapers or wooden surfaces. Aureobasidium causes eye, skin and nail infections. You should never touch it with bare skin even during removal; it can lead to skin rashes.
Penicillin
Penicillin is commonly found in water-damaged buildings. It is green in color with a velvety texture. Penicillin can spread incredibly quick from one place to another and is highly dangerous as it causes fatal respiratory illnesses like asthma and pulmonary inflammation.
However, penicillin is still used for food processing and the production of antibiotics.
Other common forms of mold that can attack your home are Trichoderma, Ulocladium, and Mucor.
Most types of mold have adverse effects on human health. Their seriousness depends on the type and extent of exposure. If you suspect that there is mold growth in your home, it is best to get a mold inspection as soon as you can.
