How Can You Tell if There’s Mold?

2/23/2018 (Permalink)

Do you see spots on the walls or ceiling? Does the same musty smell reoccur in the same place? If so, you have a mold problem. An indoor environmental specialist in Clyde Hill, Washington can help you determine just how bad the damage is by performing a mold test.

Why Mold Grows

Mold is a natural part of the ecosystem, and it plays a vital role by breaking down organic matter during the decomposition process. That’s all well and good outdoors, but when it grows aggressively indoors, it damages building structures and degrades air quality.

Mold multiplies under favorable conditions:
• Excess water that creates high humidity
• Still air that allows the spores to settle
• Proper temperatures that encourage colonies to grow

Mold commonly grows in places you can’t see. It hides under counters and behind large appliances. In many cases, it grows between walls or floors.

What the Signs Are

Mold shows up as spots on the surfaces of the infected material. It is most commonly black, white, green, or yellow, and it has a leathery or cottony looking texture. During certain stages of its growth, the colony expels gasses that give it the musty odor for which it's famous.

How Professional Testing Can Help

Even if you can identify the presence of mold growth yourself, you may not be able to determine the extent of the damage. That’s where a qualified indoor environmental specialist can help you.

These technicians use specialized equipment to test for mold. Then, a lab analyzes air quality samples. Results help the technician to estimate the type of mold and the extent of growth.

What to Do About Mold

With the information gathered, experts can help you figure out just how much work is needed to repair the damage. In some instances, cleaning is possible. When the damage has extended too far, complete mold remediation and replacement of critical structures may be necessary.

Don’t put off mold testing. If you suspect molds have invaded the inside of your home or office, contact an indoor environmental specialist today for testing.

For more information on mold visit us at http://www.SERVPRObellevuewest.com.