Mold can be defined as small living organisms that are classified under the fungi family. Mold spores have been known to thrive in moist surfaces, and their growth can spread very quickly more especially in humid areas. Mold can grow on any surface, but it does so mostly on those that are made from cellulose.
Recent research has established that the majority of people in homes are suffering from infections that are brought about by the presence of unwanted moisture in their houses. When there is excessive moisture in the house, there is the rapid growth of mold in those areas of the house that are damp like basements that are water damaged, roof, bathroom or even areas like leaking pipes.
Thus it goes without saying that indoor mold is toxic and therefore measures should be put in place, to ensure that it is discovered quickly and eliminated to prevent its spread. This is when mold detection and testing is essential as it will allow one to get rid of it soon before it causes any health issues. Below, we highlight some of the ways that one can detect and how to test for toxic mold.
Hunt for It
The first step towards detecting toxic mold is hunting for it physically. When you know the natural characteristics of it, then it is straightforward for you to discover it visibly. When you see something looking like a cotton-like element, then understand that that is it. Some of the other colors that it can appear in include green, black, grey or white.
Smell the Mold
One of the most common ways that one can test for toxic mold even though it is not recommended for obvious reasons is by smelling it. If you feel it and you realize that it has an odor that is strong and earthy, then definitely know that this must be toxic mold. So if you realize that there are moldy smells that within your house, then you should plan to eliminate them immediately. Even though not all of them smell, be wary of those that do not emit any odor and they are likely to be found between canals and panels.
Use the DIY Mold Testing Kit
Another way that you can test for toxic mold is by getting yourself a do-it-yourself testing kit. This is the most recommended way of testing for toxic mold. You can usually get this kit from the home improvement stores, supermarket or hardware that deals with such an item. These kits are generally easy to use as you only need to follow the instruction given and you are sure of obtaining immediate results.
Use the Services of a Certified Inspector
There are instances where you can be experiencing symptoms of mold exposure, but you cannot detect or determine their presence within the house. In the event of such like situation, it is advisable that you seek the services of a certified mold inspector. Searching for mold testing near me in Google can give back results of better placed inspectors in your locality to help you. Using their experience, they will be able to locate the exact location of the mold, test it, remove it as required to avoid it causing any health complications.