Mold Testing

Mold Testing: Determining the Best Approach for Your Property

Following a detailed mold inspection, the next step is to determine which type of testing is most appropriate based on the findings. This allows our team to accurately assess the extent and nature of mold growth within your home or business. There are several testing methods available, each offering unique insights depending on the situation.

Whole-House Air Sampling

Air sampling is one of the most comprehensive methods for detecting what’s floating in the air you breathe every day. We use specialized spore trap cassettes that capture a wide range of airborne particles, including mold spores, pollen, insect fragments, skin cells, fibers, and other particulates. This test typically includes at least two indoor samples and one outdoor control sample to compare air quality levels inside your home.

Swab Sampling

Swab testing is used when visible mold growth is present. A sterile, moistened swab is used to collect a sample of the mold, which is then sealed and sent to a certified lab for analysis. The lab identifies the type of mold and determines whether it is allergenic, toxic, or pathogenic. This method is often performed alongside air sampling to determine whether mold has become airborne and poses a wider threat.

Carpet Sampling

Carpet testing provides a kind of “mold history” for your home. If mold spores were ever airborne, they likely settled into the fibers of your carpet. Using a specialized vacuum collection device, we extract a sample of dust and debris from the carpet, which is then analyzed to identify mold levels and types. This method is especially useful in assessing past mold issues that may not be currently visible.

Cleanup & Removal Methods

Mold Remediation: The Final Step—Thorough Cleanup

The final stage of mold remediation is the cleanup process, which involves not only eliminating active mold growth but also removing contaminated materials to prevent future issues. Simply killing the mold with a chemical solution is not enough dead mold can still cause health problems because the proteins and allergens remain active. True remediation means complete removal of the mold and any affected materials.

Containment

Proper containment is critical to stop mold spores from spreading to other areas of your property. When mold is disturbed, it can easily become airborne and migrate, causing contamination in otherwise unaffected spaces. We seal off the affected area to contain and control any airborne spores during cleanup.

Water Extraction Vacuuming

We use specialized wet vacuum systems to extract standing water from floors and other moisture-laden surfaces. This method is only applied to areas that still contain sufficient moisture; otherwise, attempting to vacuum dry surfaces may cause mold spores to become airborne.

Damp Wiping

For non-porous surfaces, mold can often be removed by damp wiping with water and specially formulated antimicrobial cleaners. It’s essential that the area be dried quickly and thoroughly after cleaning to prevent mold from returning.

HEPA Vacuuming

After drying and removal of all contaminated materials, we use HEPA-filtered vacuums to capture any remaining mold particles from floors, walls, and surfaces. These vacuums are designed to trap even the smallest spores. Our team wears appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during this step to ensure safe and controlled removal.

Safe Disposal of Contaminated Materials

Any building components or furnishings affected by mold are carefully sealed in airtight bags or containers while still inside the remediation zone. This prevents the spread of spores during transport and ensures proper disposal of hazardous materials according to industry guidelines.