Mold inspection is a visual examination of a property for the presence & location(s) of suspected microbial growth either due to a water event, environmental conditions, material deterioration or construction defects. Samples collected from the air and surfaces are sent to a laboratory for analysis and the results are included in a written report for the client.
Our Services:
$ 260 Full Home Inspection
Inspect the entire house from the attic to the basement & crawlspaces
includes 2 mold samples, lab analysis & report
+ $35 for each additional sample
$ 160 Specific Spot Testing
Specific location and/or a general air sample to test the indoor air quality
includes a mold sample, lab analysis & report
+ $35 for each additional sample
Remediation (call for a quote)
Mold inspection results may lead to the need for mold remediation.
Once it’s been determined that mold is present and a problem, the mold must be removed. In order to do that effectively and efficiently, we follow an industry standard protocol set forth by the National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors (NORMI).
Step 1: Containment & Ventilation
The first step is to set up containment & ventilation. The use of proper ventilation & air filtration devices (AFDs) including air scrubbers is required to ensure that any mold spores that become airborne do not spread to an unaffected area. Everything we do is under negative air pressure. This ensures that spores are sucked up by our HEPA AFD.
Step 2: Cleaning & Disinfecting
The cleaning and disinfecting stage includes the actual remediation & disposal of infected materials. The more porous the material, the more likely it is that it must be discarded. Porous materials can’t be cleaned because mold roots penetrate too deeply. For example, drywall almost always has to be removed unless the mold growth is very recent and thus superficial enough to be sanded off. Less porous materials like construction lumber can be disinfected. This means the studs behind drywall can be cleaned and disinfected. Disinfection or sanitization is accomplished by chemical and physical agitation. We spray a natural enzyme on to the area, which begins to break up the cell body of the mold and lift the soil load to the surface for removal. We remove the soil load by wiping it away or HEPA vacuuming.
Step 3: Stain Removal
Occasionally after mold has been removed from wood it leaves behind a pigment stain, much like a coffee ring on a counter top. The type of wood as well as the extent & duration of mold growth are factors in whether or not staining occurs. Staining does not affect the cleanliness of the surface, but it can look unsightly. When this happens, we either apply a stain remover or we apply a coat of primer paint. Note, however, that we only paint over sanitized wood or concrete. We never paint over mold and you shouldn’t either. It will grow back!
Step 4: Sealing & Fogging
The final step is the application of an antimicrobial sealant to the wood. This protects the wood and makes it resistant to future microbial growth. In addition to sealing the sanitized wood, we also fog the entire work area in order to clear the air of any contaminates and restore the air quality. Occasionally the scope of the remediation requires additional air purification. Some molds are heavier & therefore more difficult to remove from the air. If needed, we leave our purifies running for 72 hours after remediation in order to ensure that the air quality is restored to a normal level.
Step 5: Fix the Mold Source
Once the mold is gone, we want to prevent its return. Water is the enemy when it comes to mold growth. Thus, the final step is to address any moisture or humidity concerns. For example, if a loose bathroom fan duct is venting into an attic, the fan duct should be fixed. Or if high humidity is the culprit, then maybe a dehumidifier in a basement or a vapor barrier in a crawlspace should be installed. Sometimes Peoria Mold can make the home repairs themselves; however for more involved home repairs, Peoria Mold may recommend another expert contractor to assist the client.