Understanding the Process of Mold Assessment and Remediation

Molds are fuzzy fungi; they are fuzzy because they are made of root like structures called hyphae. Most mold hyphae grow on and inside of decaying plant materials or wall boards and release millions of tiny spores that float passively through the air like tiny wind blown seeds.

Molds possess the potential to instigate health problems. Molds generate allergens and irritants. Touching or inhaling mold spores cause allergic symptoms in sensitive people. Allergic symptoms include sneezing, red eyes, skin rash, sore throat, sinus congestion, breathing difficulties, skin and eye irritation, higher risk of sinus infection and colds, and rarely upper respiratory infection. The mold effects vary extensively from one individual to another.

Mold assessment in Charleston, SC is the process used in locating the presence of molds and the extent of the infestation in a certain area and structure. Conducting a mold assessment prior to your plan to eliminate molds can provide you better solutions on how to solve the problem. This is the first step in identifying the cause of the infestation but the process can be difficult if lack of skill and learning. Molds can’t be seen easily and sometimes their presence can only be recognized due to their musty smell. These hidden molds are most likely hiding in concealed areas like underside of carpets, wallpapers, rear side of dry walls, and any other hidden surfaces that have constant moisture are sure to be infested. If you can find out the source of the molds and you know the reasons of their build-up, then it will be easy to eradicate them as well as to prevent them from coming back.

Only a trained professional has the required knowledge of designing mold-sampling protocols, sampling methodologies, and interpretation of findings. S/he can take samples of mold for testing the concentration of spores, and the type of fungi that has affected your home. Apart from these findings, analysis is also done for the type of action required for the particular mold remediation. Apart from the mold samples, air sampling is also done to determine the concentration of spores in the air; measures are taken accordingly.

Molds may seem harmless but in truth, they can cause more than just allergies. You can develop respiratory problems from prolonged inhalation of the molds. They also produce mycotoxins which may lead to neurological problems. With molds in your home, you are at risk of being exposed to too much of these mycotoxins which have also been the cause of death in some cases. Doing mold removal is just one way to prevent such things from happening.