Mold Testing

Mold Testing

When it comes to buying a home, mold testing is an important yet often overlooked aspect of the process. *Mold and dampness are present in an estimated 50% of homes, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). However, only 5% of these homes are tested for mold. Understanding the importance of mold testing when purchasing a home is vital for safeguarding the health and well-being of your family. Let us handle your Nashville mold testing needs.

 

Why Mold Testing is Important When Buying a Home

Mold growth can lead to a variety of health problems, including respiratory issues and allergic reactions. Furthermore, undetected mold growth can result in structural damage and costly repairs. By conducting mold testing before finalizing your home purchase, you can identify potential issues and address them before they escalate.

 

8 Reasons Homebuyers Should Consider Mold Testing:

• Presence of infants or elderly people in the household: These age groups are often more vulnerable to mold-related health problems.
• Home located in a high-humidity area: High humidity creates an ideal environment for mold growth, making mold testing especially important in these regions.
• Family members with compromised immune systems: Individuals with weakened immune systems may be more susceptible to mold-related health issues.
• Water damage discovered during the inspection: Water damage may be indicative of hidden mold growth, which could lead to further problems.
• Past water damage or mold issues disclosed by the seller: Prior problems with water damage or mold growth could indicate an ongoing issue that requires attention.
• Detection of musty odors during the inspection: Unpleasant odors could be a sign of hidden mold growth and should be investigated further.
• Household members with mold sensitivities, allergies, or asthma: Mold exposure can exacerbate existing respiratory issues and allergies.
• Home inspection reveals potential mold growth: If your home inspector suspects mold growth, it’s essential to confirm the presence of mold and assess the extent of the problem.

 

Our Mold Testing Methods

We use a combination of air sampling (spore trap), tape lifts, and swabs to collect samples for mold testing based on what is found during the inspection process. To establish a baseline, we take an air sample from outside the home. Air samples are taken at strategic locations inside the living space. The samples are then sent to a laboratory where interior samples are compared to the baseline sample to determine if spores are being produced within the home, pointing to mold or dampness issues.  This approach is a reliable, low-cost first step into Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) testing. If evidence of mold growth is discovered, we can recommend the appropriate steps to escalate the issue to the next level of IAQ assessment.

 

Invest in Your Home and Health with Mold Testing

Don’t let mold growth become a hidden hazard in your new home. By investing in mold testing during the homebuying process, you can ensure a healthier and safer living environment for you and your family.

 

 

*According to “WHO Guidelines for Indoor Air Quality: dampness and mould” – 2009