Residential and Commercial Inspections

Michigan Mold Inspections Testing Air Sampling

 

 

Our certified Michigan mold inspectors can provide in depth mold inspections, mold testing or air sampling assessment as a means to locate hidden mold problems.

Why is mold growing in my home?

Molds are part of the natural environment,Especially in Michigan, where large bodies of water and humidity are present. Outdoors, molds play a part in nature by breaking down dead organic matter such as fallen leaves and dead trees, but indoors, mold growth should be avoided due to the health concerns associated with breathing in mold spores. Molds reproduce by means of tiny spores.  these spores are invisible to the human eye and float through outdoor and indoor air. Mold may begin growing indoors when mold spores land on surfaces that are wet. There are many types of mold, and none of them will grow without water or moisture. Moisture control is the key to mold control. so when water leaks or spills occur indoors-ACT QUICKLY. If wet or damp materials or areas are dried 24-48 hours after a leak or spill happens, in most cases mold will not grow.  

Can Mold Cause Health Problems?

Molds are usually not a problem indoors, unless mold spores land on a wet or damp spot and begin growing. Molds have the potential to cause health problems. Some types of mold, such as Stachybotrys (commonly known as black mold) have been known to be fatal. Molds produce allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions), irritants, and in some cases, potentially toxic substances (mycotoxins). Inhaling or touching mold or mold spores may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Allergic responses include hay fever-type symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash (dermatitis). Allergic reactions to mold are common. They can be immediate or delayed. Molds can also cause asthma attacks in people with asthma who are allergic to mold. In addition, mold exposure can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs of both mold-allergic and non-allergic people. This can be one of the many reasons a home or business can be affected by sick home/building syndrome. We have helped many Michigan home owners and commercial building owners detect this problem by thoroughly inspecting the structure for moisture problems and mold growth. Our inspectors have the knowledge and experience to implement a plan of action through mold testing, air sampling and interpreting laboratory test results to get you and your home or business healthy again.

Mold Inspections, Testing and Sampling

Is a mold inspection, testing or sampling needed?  A mold inspection can detect mold growth or water sources that promote mold growth that untrained professionals cannot. Air sampling, sometimes referred to as mold testing, can detect mold spores in the air that the human eye cannot see, many people who suffer from allergies or respiratory problems don't realize there home has a high mold count.. Sampling for mold should be conducted by professionals who have specific experience in designing mold sampling protocols, sampling methods, and interpreting results. Sample analysis should follow analytical methods recommended by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), or other professional organizations. 

Suspicion of hidden mold

You may suspect hidden mold if a building smells moldy, but you cannot see the source, or if you know there has been water damage and occupants of the home are reporting health problems. Mold may be hidden in places such as the back side of dry wall, wallpaper, or paneling, the top side of ceiling tiles, the underside of carpets and pads, etc. Other possible locations of hidden mold include areas inside walls around pipes (with leaking or condensing pipes), the surface of walls behind furniture (where condensation forms), inside ductwork, and in roof materials above ceiling tiles (due to roof leaks or insufficient insulation). Specialized equipment is used to inspect inside wall cavities, air ducts or other areas not readily seen by normal inspection methods. Our inspectors are certified professionals, trained in the proper use of specialized equipment, the understanding of inspection results and how it affects your family or business.

Investigating hidden mold problems

Investigating hidden mold problems may be difficult and will require caution when the investigation involves disturbing potential sites of mold growth. For example, removal of ceiling tile can lead to a massive release of spores if there is mold growing on the upper side of the tile. The release of these mold spores can increase the size of the contaminated area, making the mold problem much worse. Suspected mold contaminated areas should never be disturbed by unqualified contractors or individuals.

Please note:Dead mold may still cause allergic reactions in some people, so it is not enough to simply kill the mold, it must also be removed.

Share:  Add to Facebook Tweet This Add to Delicious Submit to Digg Stumble This

Here is what our customers have to say about Great Lakes Home & Property Inspections:

 

The report looks very thorough and informative. I read through the report and was pleased with the explanations on the items you found that need to be addressed. I will pass your name along in the future for anyone needing a home inspection. Thanks for the professional inspection.
 
T. Rhey
Clinton Twp MI
 

Mold testing, sampling and evaluations from an experienced mold inspector.

 


Michael Bazzo
8174 MacKay Ct.
Utica Michigan 48317
(586) 855-7644