You have noticed that after rainfall, the lower level of your home has an earthy and musty smell, so you are concerned that there’s the potential that mold is infesting your house as a result, but how can you find out?
Home mold testing
Mold is activated by water activity; it only takes a small amount to start it, and once it’s active, it can spread very quickly. You can usually tell when there is mold by the musty and earthy smell in your house. It would be best to start with a visual inspection and a smell test. Note the areas where you see what appears to be mold and also where you can know the odor is more potent. If you see visible signs of mold, take a small surface sample using a cotton swab or a piece of cellophane tape and place the samples in small sandwich bags that you can have analyzed by a mold testing lab.
Mold air testing
It would also be advisable to take a mold air sample to provide more useful data. Use a mechanical, electric pump with an attached cassette to capture the spores, or if you are on a limited budget, use agar plates that you can set in a room and let it collect the mold that will grow in the plate.
Mold testing lab
There are many mold testing labs in the United States to help you determine if your sample contains mold, type, and quantity. You can find these labs online by searching for “mold testing lab.” Make sure the lab you choose has the certification to perform mold testing.
Same-day mold testing
If you have small children living in your home and immunocompromised people, it is imperative to get to the root of the problem as soon as possible. Toxigenic mold causes severe cognitive problems in young children and can also be fatal. In that case, look for a lab that offers same-day mold testing services.
Mold testing lab near me
It may be more practical to work with a local lab rather than sending a sample in, and you may also want to get the help of a professional who can do an inspection and the testing for you. A local mold testing lab may offer this service. 5 Microns Inc offers mold testing and inspection services. Our experts have all the tools and skills to do the work right. We are open Monday to Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM and Saturdays from 9 AM to 3:30 PM. You can talk to one of our experts for advice or get a free estimate. Call 425-440-8787 Now!