Mold

Molds are fungi that can be found both indoors and outdoors.

There are thousands of species of fungi which can be found in virtually every environment.  However, indoor elevated levels of certain mold spores is a direct indicator of moisture problems or water damage.

Mold may grow indoors or outdoors and thrives in damp, warm, and humid environments. Some common types of household molds are cladosporium, penicillium, aspergillus, and stachybotrys.

 

Why testing is recommended and health effects

The effects of mold exposure can vary from person to person. Initial reactions to mold exposure can range from allergies, headaches, sneezing, itching, runny nose, upper respiratory problems, and skin irritation. However, long term exposure can cause much greater health problems, especially to those with compromised immune systems; such as children and the elderly.

Certain species of molds release potentially dangerous mycotoxins in the air. Mycotoxins are toxic substances produced by fungi.

Testing Process

Mold testing is performed by the use of swab, tape lift, bulk and air sampling. Swab, tape lift and bulk sampling is performed by collecting visible suspect mold and analyzed for the species and amount of fungi present. Air sampling is performed by collecting air into a cassette after which the slide inside the cassette is analyzed for the species and amount of mold spores in the air.

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