Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I have a moisture problem and possible mold problem. Should I employ both a remediator and indoor air quality specialist?

A: Yes, it is recommended that you employ an independent Indoor Environmental Professional (IEP) as well as a remediator. The IEP should have no business affiliation with the remediator, before starting remediation.

Q: What are molds?

A: Molds are simple, microscopic organisms, present virtually everywhere, indoors and outdoors. They are fungi and are needed to break down dead material and recycle nutrients in the environment. For molds to grow and reproduce, they need only a food source and moisture. Molds grow by digesting organic material such as leaves, wood, paper and other cellulose materials and gradually destroy whatever they are growing on. Mold growth on surfaces can often be seen in the form of discoloration, frequently green, gray, brown or black, but also with and other colors or they can't be seen at all. Molds release countless, tiny lightweight spores that travel through the air and contaminate other areas as they settle.

Q: Can mold become a problem in my home?

A: Yes, molds will grow and multiply whenever conditions are right. Sufficient food (organic material) and moisture will cause mold growths within your home.

Q: What are some common sources of indoor moisture that I should be aware of?

A: Flooding, leaky roofs, plumbing leaks, humidifiers, damp basements or crawl spaces, steam from shows and cooking, sprinklers hitting the house, damp clothes in the house, clothes dryers being exhausted into your home.

Q: Can I have an inspection completed on my house even though I have had not apparent water or mold damage?

A: Yes, we would be more than happy to complete a certified mold inspection of your home with or without any apparent damage. The mold inspection will give you pease of mind of knowing that at the time of the inspection you didn't have a mold problem inside your home. This could change in the event that you have moisture build up or some other event that might cause mold to grow in your home after the inspection.

Q: How fast does mold start to grow?

A: Mold can start growing in as little as 24 to 48 hours after exposure to moisture.

Q: Should I test for mold myself?

A: We do not recommend testing for mold yourself. We recommend that you hire a qualified Indoor Air Quality inspector who has the knowledge, equipment and uses a certified laboratory to test for mold in your home. If you suspect you have a mold problem, it is best to call a professional to assist you.

Q: Can my humidifier or air conditioner be a source of mold?

A: Yes, they can be a source of mold contamination. Humidifiers, dehumidifiers and air conditioning units should be regularly cleaned, disinfected by certified technicians for the equipment you have in your home.

Q: Is there mold in my home and am I exposed to indoor molds?

A: Yes, there is mold in your home and everyone is exposed to some mold on a daily basis without harm. It is common to find mold spores inside your home as most airborne spores found inside your home came from outdoor sources and brought into your home.