Mold is always associated with moisture
in order to resolve a mold you must reduce moisture levels. Mold can be a very serious issue and knowing when it is present
can make a large difference financially as well as physically. Sometimes water leaks can not be seen or accessed and mold
is the only indication of a moisture problem. In addition to water leaks high humidity is another important factor affecting
mold growth. Mold can grow with when humidity levels are above 60% using a dehumidifier and keeping levels around 50%
will minimize mold growth. We perform mold services for Homeowners, Homebuyers, Renters, Residential Buildings,
Commercial Buildings, and Operating Businesses. If you have a mold problem or
questions you can visit the EPA's Mold Website the CDC's mold website visit F.A.Q and view mold in my home.pdf
Mold Evaluations
Our mold testing is usually accompanied with a visual inspection and the report
you receive is called a Mold Evaluation. A Mold Evaluation describes current mold levels (and what those levels mean
to you in an understandable language), moisture problems associated with building, and recommendations on what should be done
to solve any issues stated in the report. A Mold Evaluation including an inspection and testing is recommended if you
have indoor allergies or complaints thought to be associated with mold and can find no water leaks. Mold Evaluations are also
recommended if you are unsure of the present state of a property in a commercial or residential Real Estate transaction where
mold can mean accepting a large liability.
Mold
Testing
Mold testing
involves taking air samples and performing a visual inspection. Results can be in total mold spores or C.F.U.'s (colony forming
units). Non Culturable testing is done for general screening and the results are given in total mold spores present,
and provide accurate information on what the mold spore levels are in the building. More costly with longer turnaround is
culturable testing which is primarily done for after remediation. Cultured samples look at (C.F.U.'s) colony forming
units which are a measure of the total living colonies present. Culturable testing is useful since it estimates the living
mold in a house and not just the mold spores that may still be present even after remediation.
Mold Inspections
Mold Inspections look for any visible signs of
mold and moisture damage. Since it is important to understand building materials and construction techniques to solve
a mold problem our Inspectors have a thorough background in both the building construction industry and hold a degree in biology,
environmental science, or have a similar related B.S. degree. Our reports are able to give you information
that describes current building problems and ways to correct mold and moisture issues.
Remediation Consulting
Common remediation work involves hiring a contractor to remove and
replace sheetrock after the source of water intrusion has been repaired. Water intrusion can be direct (as from a leak that
needs to be repaired) or indirect (as from condensation). Indirect moisture can be limited with bathroom and kitchen fans,
dehumidifiers, vapor barriers and insulation). Our company will work with your contractor to insure proper remediation techniques
are implemented. The EPA and the CDC provide guidelines for remediation and procedures on proper cleanup and disposal. Never hire a mold remediation
company that does mold testing or a testing company that offers remediation services as there is a clear conflict of interest
and you will likely be charged for unnecessary services. Remediation work should focus on resolving moisture issues
first. After moisture issues are resolved mold issues can be resolved. Read about mold scams in our F.A.Q.
Clearance
Testing
Following
remediation it is recommended that clearance testing be performed. Clearance testing assesses if a mold problem was
resolved after remediation work. A building is tested to see if there are any more live colonies present.
Clearance testing should never be performed by your contractor, a remediation company or anyone with a interest in the outcome.
See mold scams in F.A.Q. C.E.T. LLC consultants are independent investigators with no affiliations with any remediation companies or contractors.
Please contact us if you have any questions or would like a quote for services.
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