What are the types of tests?

There are primarily FIVE types of tests. The following three testing methods are the most popular and cost-effective. First, is the air sample where we collect air and trap spores in a laboratory approved micro 5 cassettes. The second is a surface sample which is conducted by rubbing a sterile swab on an affected area and saving it in a test tube. Third, is removing a piece of the suspected area (such as drywall, articles of clothing, carpet etc) and storing it safely in a Ziploc bag. 

 

What is the mold testing process?

A sample of the exterior air and one air sample of each suspect area are collected. If, and when needed, surface samples are collected as well. Each sample collection takes 5 minutes.

 

After sample collection, our independent and certified laboratory analyzes each sample. Typical turn-around time for the laboratory is 2-3 days. Once we receive the lab results, we issue your mold test report. Same day service is available. Please inquire.

 

Our reports are simple, concise, and easy to understand. Once you receive the report, please study the report and feel free to contact us with any questions. In addition, we recommend that you consult with your physician about the impact of the species, regardless of levels, may have on indoor air quality and your health.

 

Why do we need a control sample?

A control sample is required for testing. A control sample is a collection of air sample of the exterior. That sample serves as a baseline to compare "normal" air to the indoor air quality.

 

Which areas should be tested?

Generally, clients have a suspect area in mind for testing. But we may recommend further testing if our investigation suggests additional tests are warranted. However, it is entirely your decision if additional samples are helpful to you and needed.

 

For example, you may have had a drain leak at hallway bathroom and you notice stuff growing on the wall and/or cabinets. We will collect air/surface samples in the bathroom. However, we cannot eliminate the possibility that mold or moisture may have spread in between walls and into adjacent room or closet. And that has happened more often than one can expect.

 

How long does the test take?

A typical mold test takes up to an hour. However, additional sample collection takes time. Each sample collection takes 5 minutes.

 

When do I get the results?

Our standard turn-around time is 2-4 business days. An option for same day report is available at an extra charge of $15 per sample. Same day results are available for 8:30 am appointments only.

 

What's in a report?

The report can be divided into two parts.

 

1. Laboratory results: it consists of laboratory readings taken from your samples collected. The result identifies the location of sample collection, type of fungus/species, spore count, and percentages.

 

2. Overview- we note the date, time, temperature, humidity level, photos of sample collection and the areas from which samples were collected. Based on the lab results you will either have a "clearance"  or "elevated levels".

 

Clearance implies that elevated levels of mold DO NOT exist in the area(s) tested at the time tests were conducted. However, there have been cases where further evaluation and second testing was necessary to locate the fungal spores from hidden areas elsewhere in the property. One must always consider that every person's physiology reacts differently and what is a comfortable level for one person may not be comfortable for an immune compromised or very sensitive person

 

While elevated levels may not be present, insignificant levels of various species can have an adverse reaction on one person than the other- and those two persons can be living in the same room! We highly recommend sharing our laboratory results with your personal physician even if elevated levels of mold are not present and you continue to have health concerns.

 

Elevated levels of mold exist in the area(s) tested. We will identify the types of mold present, their levels, and their effects.  Please take the time to read through the entire descriptions and the report as it important information and may prove valuable to your health.

 

What if I have Elevated Levels of Mold?

If the tests establish that elevated levels of mold exist in the area(s) tested, several steps must be taken to prevent further health risks.

 

We do not advise cleaning mold yourself. Most household chemicals such as bleach can multiply or facilitate the growth of spores. In addition, you do not want mold spores to become airborne by improperly removing contaminated material.

 

Contact a mold remediation company. Make sure they have the right experience, and certifications to make your environment a healthy one. Mold remediation is costly, time-consuming and extensive. You want to hire the right company. Utilize online search engine reviews as they can provide you with references. Let the professionals who are trained and experienced help you.

 

Once remediation is completed, we do not recommend reconstruction until you have a Clearance. We will return to perform an unbiased Clearance test or you may choose to utilize the remediation company's testing services. Reconstruction can commence once you have an unbiased test and Clearance letter.