How to Get a Free Mold Inspection
Mold can develop in any home when conditions are favorable. Whether in the basement or crawl space, mold, mildew, and moisture create an unwelcoming environment that poses health risks for families and guests while also reducing property value. Taking proactive measures ensures your property remains mold-free and healthy. Let’s explore more about mold and why a professional inspection is essential.
What Causes Mold?
Mold growth is caused by excess moisture, usually caused by leaky pipes, poor ventilation, faulty gutters, high humidity levels, or water damage. It thrives in damp, dark, and poorly ventilated areas, making basements and crawl spaces particularly susceptible to its growth. When mold spores find an environment with adequate moisture and nutrients, they quickly grow and colonize, leading to an unhealthy mold infestation.
What Are Signs of Mold in Your House?
Mold comes in many forms, with visible mold growth being the most obvious sign. However, a musty or earthy odor without visible mold also suggests a problem. Other signs include peeling wallpaper, bubbling or peeling paint, moisture, and surface discoloration. Persistent health issues like respiratory problems, allergic reactions, and headaches may also signal mold exposure.
How to Test for Mold in Your Home
There are several at-home methods for testing mold, the most apparent being a thorough inspection to identify visible signs of mold growth. Inspect the basement and crawl space for moisture, pests, mold, musty smells, and wood rot. It is crucial to remember that certain areas of the home, especially the crawl space, should be inspected by a professional to prevent safety risks.
Methods like moisture meters, air sampling, and surface sampling are also used for mold testing. These approaches differ, with some detecting high moisture levels on walls, floors, and ceilings, while others collect air samples from various areas of the home or collect samples from mold-suspected surfaces. Most samples are sent for laboratory analysis to determine the type and severity of mold present.
However, DIY mold testing methods are not recommended due to the potential safety risks involved. It is best to contact a mold remediation specialist to address mold problems prior to fixing the underlying issues and before conducting any repairs on resulting damage.
How to Get a Free Professional Mold Inspection
Professional mold inspections provide a thorough and accurate assessment of the affected areas. Visible signs of mold and the underlying causes are identified, and a prevention plan is made, followed by professional mold removal and structural repairs. AFS provides free inspections to identify mold and its underlying causes. We recommend the most effective solution to address moisture concerns following remediation, helping to prevent future mold growth and ensure a safer and healthier environment for your family. Contact AFS to schedule a free mold inspection today.
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