Mold testing

Mold is a part of our natural environment.  Outdoors, mold plays an important ecological purpose. But indoors, mold growth should be avoided. 

Mold reproduces tiny spores that are invisible to the naked eye and float through the air.  Whether you are outdoors or indoors, these tiny mold spores can be found on most everything we touch. 

In order for mold to grow, it requires three things:

• A food source, such as drywall, wood, concrete, dust.
• Moisture (water).
• Favorable temperature (heat).

The combination of these three characteristics within a home can gradually destroy whatever mold grows on and can cause health problems if this mold is allowed to continue to grow. 

Mold comes in many colors; the most prevalent are white and black. The most toxic mold (stachybotrys) is black in color, but color alone is not a good determination of its toxic concern. 

Both Cladosporium and Penicillium/Aspergillus can be black in color, but are often not toxic unless found in large amounts. 

The best way to determine the toxicity of mold is to have the area of concern tested by trained mold tester. AmeriSpec’s trained mold personnel use two types of tests to determine if mold is present:

• Swab tests are used on visible areas. Swab tests cost $100 per test.
• Indoor air quality test is used to determine the presence of mold spores in the air.  This test costs $300 and involves three samplings: 1) outside/exterior, which is used as the control sampling, 2) one from the main living area; and 3) one taken from the basement.

Results from both tests are available through a certified lab within 48 hours of testing.

The best defense against having mold develop within the home is to maintain moderate temperature (70-72 degrees) and humidity (55% or lower), circulate air, dust regularly and keep areas moisture-free.

Mold produces allergens (substances that cause allergic reactions) and in some cases, potentially toxic substances (mycotoxins).  Allergic reactions to mold are quite common and can wreak havoc for those who are asthmatic.

To make an appointment for mold testing or for more information, please call AmeriSpec Nebraska at (402) 393-3696 or make an appointment online.