Mold Testing Near Me in Myrtlewood, Alabama

Pillar To Post™ Home Inspectors are nationally esteemed as the premier home inspection service recommended by millions of homeowners, soon-to-be homebuyers, and real estate agents. Protect your family and your possessions by coming to us when seeking mold inspection near me.

How Dangerous Is Mold?

Mold is a variety of fungus that thrives in dark and damp environments, and is commonly found in homes with higher levels of moisture. It can manifest in a variety of colors, from black and green to white and orange, and flourishes in spaces with high humidity, water leaks, and poor ventilation. It can be present on cellulose-based materials, like walls, ceilings, floors, carpets, and even clothing. A mold inspector will typically look for evidence of leaks and water in a home to locate the likeliest catalyst for any mold growth.

While most types of mold are benign, others have been known to cause health concerns, especially for persons who are immuno-compromised. People with allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems can experience symptoms such as a stuffy nose, coughing, wheezing, and rash. Pets can also be negatively impacted by the fungus, experiencing symptoms of respiratory distress, vomiting, and digestive issues. Black mold is of particular concern in Myrtlewood, Alabama and part of a professional mold inspection will be identifying the species present to comprehend the risk and develop a plan for remediation.

It’s understandable if you worry for the safety of yourself or your family and ask questions relating to the impact of mold exposure. One question our mold inspectors are often asked is if it’s possible to test an individual for contact with mold? We cannot offer that as a part of our mold inspection service, however, there are a variety of ways it can be performed by your doctor, including dermal, blood, and urine testing.

While mold may not always present a significant risk to the health of most people, it’s particularly harmful for many common building materials found inside of homes. Mold spores colonize and feed on plant-based materials and ruin in a relatively short period. Some cellulose or plant-based materials used and stored inside of homes include:

• Drywall
• Wood
• Carpet
• Insulation
• Ceiling tiles
• Wallpaper
• Fabrics
• Upholstery
• Some Painted surfaces
• Paper
• Cardboard
• And More

Mold testing can detect the variety present and reveal the source of humidity contributing to a growth inside of the home you own or the one you’re thinking about purchasing. A common request posed to mold inspectors at Pillar To Post™ is if we are able to test a human or pet for mold exposure. Unfortunately, this cannot be established by our mold inspection service but can be done by your doctor with blood and skin screening. A skilled mold inspection will offer you more power in your home-selling negotiations or offer you more understanding into the quality of your investment and the security of occupants when buying a home.

What Is a Mold Inspection?

An expert mold inspection service typically involves a comprehensive assessment of a property to detect the presence of mold and determine the extent of the issue. The particular process for a professional mold inspection may change depending on the house size, but generally includes:

• Initial Assessment: The mold inspector acquires information from the current homeowner regarding any noticeable mold growth, water leaks, or indoor air quality doubts. Mildewy smells or health symptoms presented by occupants will also be scrutinized.
• Visual Inspection: The inspector will perform a visual inspection of the property, evaluating for any apparent signs of mold colonization. They will inspect areas of the house that are known to be susceptible to mold growth, such as basements, bathrooms, and kitchens.
• Moisture detection: Assessing moisture levels is vital in identifying likely sources of mold spread. Moisture meters and other specialized equipment are used to measure the moisture levels of building materials and identify areas with high humidity or water intrusion behind walls, under flooring, or in other concealed areas. Thermal-imaging devices may be used to locate areas where mold colonization may be happening.
• Air Sampling: Mold testing may necessitate air samples to be extracted from several areas of the home using specific equipment. The air samples will be sent to a laboratory for assessment to establish the type and concentration of mold spores existing in the air.
• Surface Sampling: If mold infestation is suspected but not obvious, the inspector could take surface samples from areas such as walls, ceilings, or other areas. This requires swiping or tape-lifting areas of surfaces, which is also sent to a laboratory for analysis.
• Documentation and Reporting: Findings are documented, including things visually observed, measurements, sampling points, and analysis findings. A comprehensive report is prepared, recapping the inspection information, mold species identified, and recommended actions for restoration, if necessary.
• Recommendations and Remediation Plan: Depending on the inspection results, the inspector supplies suggestions to tackle the mold issues and prevent further growth.
• Follow-up and Clearance Testing: A post-remediation assessment may be performed to confirm that the restoration efforts were effective and that the mold issue has been correctly addressed.
• Education and Prevention: The inspector informs the client about mold prevention measures, including adequate ventilation, humidity management, and care procedures.

How Can I Assist in an Effective Mold Inspection Before the Inspector Arrives?

You do not need to do a lot in preparation for a mold inspection besides making sure that your inspector can readily reach areas of the home where you suspect mold growth. It is also advised to arrange for pets to be outdoors of the home during the course of the testing period to guarantee that the results of the inspection are not influenced by pet dander or additional allergens.

A few activities we recommend you not to do include:

• Do not clean or disturb any rooms within the house where you suspect mold to be present.
• Do not operate any air purifiers or air filters during the testing period, as these may throw off the results of the test.
• If feasible, avoid cooking, smoking, or utilizing any chemical-releasing products for a minimum of 24 hours before the inspection. This step helps ensure that the inspection results are not influenced by foreign airborne contaminants.

It is additionally recommended to keep all windows and doors closed for at least 12 hours before the inspection. This measure guarantees that the air within the home stays still and accurately represents the usual indoor air quality. By following these guidelines, you will boost the precision of your mold inspection service and evaluation.

Call or Make an Appointment For Mold Inspection Services Online

Mold can take hold rapidly within a home and consume various building materials and personal possessions. The fungus additionally presents a potential health danger to at-risk individuals and pets. When looking for mold inspection near me in Myrtlewood, Alabama, choose Pillar To Post™ to obtain the most accurate results and a clear path forward for cleanup. Safeguard your assets and inhabitants by scheduling an appointment for mold testing online or by dialing 800-294-5591 today.