Mold Testing & Inspection in Omaha, NE
A big part of the home inspection process is identifying and testing areas where mold may be present. Home Buyers Protection Company helps home buyers identify and solve problem areas to prevent future issues like poor air quality or degradation of supports, walls, or floors.
Types of Mold Testing & Inspection
When testing for mold in a home or business, there are three ways in which we will check for issues. We will conduct a visual inspection, take air samples, and/or use tape/swab sampling to identify problems.
1
Visual Inspection
The first step to identifying possible mold contamination problems is through a visual inspection. During this, we can identify visible leaks or moisture stains on ceiling, walls, floors, or under counters. If we notice any mold growing, musty odors, stains or water damage, poorly maintained HVAC systems, or construction defects, we will recommend mold sampling be completed.
2
Air Sampling
Air sampling helps us determine the type and amount of airborne contamination in a home or building and is necessary if the presence of mold, allergens, or toxins is suspected (e.g., odors, increased allergy outbreaks) but hasn’t been identified through visual inspection. Indoor and outdoor samples are taken to ensure control samples are present to better show signs of poor air quality.
3
Tape/Swab Sampling
The final mold test Home Buyers Protection Company may run is through tape/swab sampling. These samples are usually collected from visible moldy surfaces by wiping the area with a sterile swab. This helps us to identify specific mold types.
Where Mold Is Found and How to Fix It
In homes and businesses, mold can unfortunately grow in a number of areas, especially if these areas are often exposed to water or moisture. If left untreated, mold can quickly begin to move to different areas of your home. We often find mold inside the home in the following areas:
- Attics, basements, kitchens, bathrooms, washer/dryer area
- The underside of carpets and pads
- The surface of exterior walls behind furniture (where condensation forms)
- Ceilings and the top side of ceiling tiles
- Front and back side of drywall, wall paper, or paneling
- Inside HVAC systems and duct work
- Clothing
- Food
Next Steps for Nixing Mold
While the list of places where mold can form may seem intimidating, effectively treating it and reducing it in your home can be done through the following means:
Repair any water leaks, roof leaks, plumbing leaks, foundation leaks, window leaks, etc.
Provide good air circulation, especially in basements and attics
HVAC systems should have regular cleaning/servicing and quality air filters should be used
Use bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room exhaust fans
Insulate and ventilate crawl space areas
Clean, dry, or remove items that are damaged by water immediately
Why You Should Address Mold Quickly
Aside from issues you could encounter from a stalled closing on a home due to mold, the bigger issue at the center of mold being present in your home has to do with your health. When you don’t address mold quickly, it could lead to any of the following health issues:
- Itching or irritation of the nose, eyes, throat, or skin
- Mysterious skin rashes
- Sinus infections or congestion/sinusitis (runny nose)
- Respiratory problems (sneezing and coughing)
- Frequent headaches
- Upper or lower respiratory infections
- Fatigue
- Trouble concentrating, memory lapses, confusion
- Mood swings, anxiety, depression
- Chronic aches and pains
- Digestive problems
Clearance Testing
The most important of the mold cleanup process is the clearance testing. This final test will provide confirmation that the project has been completed properly and that mold has not spread to other areas. This test will greatly help you avoid any issues that would come during the buying or selling process.
Contact Home Buyers Protection Company
Do you need to have mold tested or checked in your home? Give us a call at (402) 334-7926 or send us a quick message to schedule an appointment with one of our trained experts! Our team is ready to help.