The Importance of Testing for Black Mold

Testing for black mold is a crucial process that many people don’t do. The reason is simple, most homeowners might not know they have black mold. Mold can create a musty smell coming from the bathroom, yet still, it could remain odorless as it penetrates deep in the air duct system. Mold (specifically black mold) can be a persistent problem causing significant health concerns for you and your family.  Homeowners should always be on the lookout and continue testing for black mold.

If you do not see black mold in the home, you should be aware of the following symptoms:

• Trouble thinking or focusing, memory issues
• Headaches
• Fatigue and Weakness
• Muscle cramping
• Nerve, joint pain
• Numbness and tingling.
• Red, itchy eyes
• Sinus congestion

(Many of these symptoms are reported to lessen once the resident is outside the home.)

Testing for black mold has changed over the years. With so many DIY products and equipment on the market, and home remedies easily available online, it is easy to fall susceptible to quick and cheap methods guaranteeing a one-time fix. As the professionals at Green Home with over two decades of experience have seen, this is simply not the case. Spores can be as small as 3 microns and they can easily become airborne, and lodge themselves in dark corners and colonize.

The Professional Method: Testing for Black Mold

Certified, full-scale mold removers such as Green Home Air are best at getting the job done start to finish.  In fact, Green Home conducts free mold inspections anywhere in Salt Lake County. We know the common areas where mold may gather in a home such as under sinks, basements and small crawlspaces and inspect thoroughly. Technicians will even take samples and send to a lab for additional testing to determine exactly which of the hundreds of varieties of mold it is. From here, our experts can be better informed to provide you, the customer, with the best plan for remediation in Utah.

When Should Testing Be Done?

After water damage:

Remember this does not always have to come in the form of a basement flood (although that is most common).  You should inspect for mold anytime there has been large amounts of standing water for over 24 hours.  Other water damage can occur from a broken pipe or even a leaky roof.  In cases such as these, the mold may be growing behind drywall, under floor panels or within the insulation.  It is highly advised to test for black mold in situations like these.  Some removal and light demolition may be necessary to properly inspect.

When purchasing a new home:

Even with new construction, you are never entirely sure of events within a structure you have not occupied.  Always have inspected before a move in so you know exactly what you are dealing with.

After the previous remediation:

Given that mold spores can be microscopic and move so easily through the air it is impossible to tell if has been removed 100% from a house. Follow up sessions occurring on a set schedule are an excellent idea and a great way to ensure the air quality remains high.

 

For more information, please contact Green Home Air:

Green Home Air:

3704 Laurelcrest St

Salt Lake City, UT 84109

(801) 784-2401