Mold Questions and Answers
Knowing as much as you can about mold prepares you to make the right decisions when it comes to inspection and remediation. On this page, we've answered some common questions from Mold Pro clients.
I've heard about exposure to molds in homes and buildings. Should I be concerned?
Certain individuals such as children and the elderly are more susceptible to health problems. Molds produce allergens, pathogens and in some cases potentially toxic substances. The presence of mold in a residence or other building is not always visible, and sometimes the adverse health effects mold has on a building's occupants are the first sign of a problem. A full inspection by a certified mold professional is the best way to determine whether your property is being impacted by an unseen fungal contamonation.
What are the possible health effects of mold exposure ?
Inhalation of fungal spores, fragments (parts), or metabolites (e.g. mycotoxins and volatile organic compounds) from a wide variety of fungi may lead to or exacerbate immunologic (allergic) reactions, cause toxic effects, or cause infections.
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Illnesses can result from both high level, short-term exposures and lower level, long-term exposures. The most common symptoms reported from exposures in indoor environments are runny nose, eye irritation, cough, congestion, aggravation of asthma, headache, and fatigue.
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In order for humans to be exposed indoors, fungal spores, fragments, or metabolites must be released into the air and inhaled, physically contacted (dermal exposure), or ingested.
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Whether symptoms develop in people exposed to fungi depends on the nature of the fungal material (e.g. allergenic, toxic, or infectious), the amount of exposure, and the susceptibility of exposed persons. Susceptibility varies with the genetic predisposition (e.g. allergic reactions do not always occur in all individuals), age, state of health, and concurrent exposures.
What is Mold Pro's inspection methodology?
Indoor air quality and its potential for health effects and structural damage needs a broad approach to accurately define a problem and effectively target the source. My qualitative investigation methods, years of construction experience, 20+ years of field experiance and extensive education in the indoor air quality discipline has uniquely positioned me at the forefront of this industry. The dedication to my company motto (Knowledge-Integrity-Service-Solutions) is the cornerstone of commitment that I pledge to all of my clients. Whether a small residential inspection or a large High-rise CCIE evaluation this personal obligation is paramount.
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A visual inspection is the most important initial step in identifying a possible mold contamination problem. The extent of any water damage and mold growth will be visually assessed by a Brad C. Slack Board Certified Indoor Environmentalist. This assessment is important to determine sampling and remedial strategies. Ventilation systems will also visually checked, particularly for damp filters but also for damp conditions elsewhere in the system and overall cleanliness. Ceiling tiles, gypsum wallboard (sheetrock), cardboard, paper and other cellulose surfaces were given careful attention during a visual inspection. I use a Thermal Imaging camera, hygrometer, a boroscope (fiber optics) and a protimiter (moisture meter) to detect hidden mold and moisture behind the walls, ceilings and floors and to determine the areas of potential mold growth and continuing moisture penetration. During this evaluation, if necessary, a methodology for mold sampling will be developed.
