MOLD AND INDOOR AIR QUALITY

Mold and Indoor Air Quality

Molds are very tiny and lightweight organisms in the atmosphere and are nature’s creation to break down unwanted and dead material. Mold is normally found outdoors and its count fluctuates depending on the season and the time of the day etc. Indoor, most building surfaces provide adequate nutrients to support their growth. Mold spores multiply heavily in dampness and large quantity; it can cause allergic symptoms similar to those created by plant pollen. No standards exist to judge an acceptable amount of mold. Each case and circumstances are very different due to huge abnormalities in the scenario.

All molds should be handled with caution. The color can vary from light green to brown to black etc. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), all molds should be treated as potential health risks and removal should be handled professionally.

Most molds are a reason for caution after flooding in the basements etc. Carpets, sheetrock, paper, and other absorbent materials can grow mold after getting soaked. In general, it's stylish to throw out those particulars. Other items made of glass or metal should be cleaned and aseptic. It is important to make sure that the source of moisture is stopped or removed before the mold is cleaned up, otherwise the mold will grow again.

There are many types of molds found in the home. Mold can grow on almost any substance as long as it has a carbon-based food source, moisture, oxygen, and the temperature is between 40 and 100F. Some of the most important common types are:

Alternaria Alternaria is a fungus that can cause allergic reactions and respiratory problems. It is found outdoors in plant soils, but indoors it is found in carpets, textiles, house dust, and potentially damp areas like walls or ceilings. Most often associated with allergies, it can also result in asthma, watery eyes, red skin, and nasal congestion.
Aspergillus Aspergillus is a genus of fungus that is found in warmer climates. It can be found in areas of water damage or extreme dampness. This is also found in house dust. Aspergillus is a genus of fungi that produce mycotoxins. These mycotoxins may be associated with disease in humans and some animals. Aspergillus can be found in many places, but it is most commonly found in building materials, and fall leaves.
Penicillium Penicillium is a genus of molds, which are fungi that typically produce blue-green spores. This is the most usual mold known to cause allergies, high fever, and asthma. Penicillium sp. may grow on the wallpaper, wallpaper glue, and decaying fabrics in water-damaged buildings or homes. It is found in carpets and interior fiberglass duct insulation.
Cladosporium Cladosporium is a genus of fungi that includes many species. The indoor species on textiles, wood, and other porous, damp areas. Cladosporium is a genus of fungus that includes both indoor and outdoor species. These funds are triggers for hay fever and asthma symptoms. One way it can enter a house is through the HVAC and other airflow entryways.
Stachybotrys Stachybotrys is a toxic black mold that produces airborne toxins. It can cause serious breathing difficulties and memory loss. Stachybotrys is a type of mold that thrives in moist environments. It is usually found in homes with excessive moisture, such as running water.

Residential and Commercial Mold Inspections

Mold is a concern for many people when it comes to buying a home or building. Mold can grow in any environment with moisture and food sources. Mold inspections are important for anyone who wants to buy a home or building. Inspections can help determine the presence of mold and if it is safe to live or work in space.

It is important to have mold inspections done before buying a home or starting any construction project. Mold inspections are relatively inexpensive and can save you the cost of expensive repairs.

How Does a Mold Inspection Work?

We are highly trained home inspectors with many years of experience detecting and providing solutions for remediation.

A mold inspection and testing is a process where an inspector searches the building for mold growth, as well as indoor air quality and water damage. The inspector will also check for any signs of moisture or water leaks that could lead to mold growth.

Here are various Ways to Test for Mold:

  • Through inspections and the identification process
  • Confirm suspicious areas via lab testing
  • Check the air quality to test for fungal growth and state-of-the-art equipment

Comprehensive Results and Recommendations

As a part of every home inspection service we offer, we provide you with a comprehensive report of our findings during the inspection, this report includes lab results, photos, professional opinions and interpretations, recommendations, and additional comments.

The reports provided by us are very easy to read and interpret. It will be delivered to your email soon after your appointment.

How much does a mold inspection cost in New Jersey?

The cost of mold home inspection in NJ can vary depending on many factors. Some of these include the type of mold that needs to be inspected, the size of the area that needs to be cleaned, how long the mold has existed instant, and whether or not the mold was caused by a natural debacle ( similar to flooding). The average cost of Mold inspection in New Jersey is $16 - $30 per square foot.

Mold, Bacteria and Bioaerosol Testing

We Can Test:

  • Air - viable spores, total spores, PCR
  • Bulk material
  • Surface wipes and tape lift samples
  • Bacteria
  • Endotoxins
  • Legionnella in water
  • Allergens - e.g., cat, dog, cockroach, dust mites, mice
  • Full Flyspeck Identification- looks for fibers, beast & nonentity corridor, minerals and unusual accouterments when standard testing isn't conclusive. All lab samples are forwarded immediately to highly-qualified and accredited third party microbiological laboratories.

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