The presence of mold in a home or business can be alarming, and it is important to know how to proceed. Whether you have seen visible signs of mold or suspect that you may have a problem, the best way to proceed is to hire a certified mold inspector for a professional inspection and laboratory testing. A mold inspection will provide information such as the type of mold, where it is located and how much is present. It will also include a recommendation for further investigation, if necessary. A mold remediation company can then work from this information to develop a plan for addressing the situation.
Mold growth is caused by excessive moisture, which can occur from flooding, leaks, or simply not drying a surface after cleaning. Mold spores then settle on the damp spot and begin to grow. Left unchecked, a single spore can quickly become a full-blown infestation. Mold is a parasite that feeds on organic matter, and once it gains a foothold in a building, it can devour wood and drywall, creating dry rot and other problems. Locating and containing the mold early on will save you considerable expense in structural repairs.
Most of the cost of a mold inspection is for the labor to visually inspect a property and collect samples. Depending on the size of the property, an inspection can take up to several hours. The cost to collect the samples varies based on what is being tested for and the method of sampling. For example, a tape sample involves applying a piece of tape to the visible mold and then lifting it up and sending it for analysis. A bulk sample involves removing a section of the affected material such as carpeting or drywall for testing. Swab samples use a sterile swab to smear the suspected area of mold and send it for analysis.
Other costs to consider when planning for a mold inspection are the price of any equipment or tools that may be needed to do the job, such as infrared moisture meters and cameras. Some professional mold inspectors also carry a moisture meter to help locate hidden sources of water damage that may be contributing to the mold infestation.
The most cost-effective approach to a mold inspection is to plan ahead and schedule one prior to any water or flood damage that may be occurring or anticipated. Then, the mold inspection will be able to address the issue before it gets out of hand. It is also a good idea to have mold inspections Mold Inspection Company Tampa Bay performed after any mold removal to ensure that all the mold spores have been eliminated from the environment. Contact us for more information about our mold inspection and remediation services. We serve clients in Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Leander, and the surrounding areas. We offer a wide range of services that meet the needs of residential and commercial properties. Our proven science-based testing helps keep homes and businesses safe, healthy, and secure.