Mold inspection is the process of determining if mold exists in your home and, if it does, where it is growing. Here are some of the most common tasks that need to be completed when performing mold inspection in your home.
Locate water leakage
The first process in mold inspection is to locate water problem or water leakage area where molds initially start growing. Mold inspection should be performed at once if visible molds have been seen in your home which is a sign that there are molds growing in other parts of the house not visible to the occupants.
Hire a professional mold inspector
Mold inspection involves hiring a professional mold inspector. A certified mold inspector uses special equipment, such as fiber optics and moisture meter, to determine the areas where mold will most likely exist, including hard-to-reach areas, such as spaces behind walls. Mold inspectors are also trained to find hidden mold without disturbing your home or requiring occupants to leave the house.
Occupants must help identify mold growth
Mold inspection also requires the help of the occupants since they can immediately pinpoint areas where water leakage exists for the inspectors to save time in locating mold growing areas. Areas like pipe running paths, air conditioner leaks, leaking roofs or areas where water accumulates after raining and flooding should also be identified to make mold inspection more effective. Areas high in cellulose such as those under the carpets, drywall portions, insulated areas or ventilation ducts should also be inspected.
Large areas of mold during inspection should not be immediately disturbed if possible since reckless removal of the molds can lead to the spread of spores and mycotoxins all throughout your home.
Removal of the extensive mold colonies should only be started once the proper containment has been established during remediation. Confirmation of the mold is also essential since the mold you might have seen may be just dark soot or dirty surfaces.
Using a mold test kit
A mold test kit can be used to confirm if the suspected mold is really mold. A certain testing can be also performed to identify what species of mold is existing in your homes so as to identify, as well proper extermination of this type of mold.