Mold Testing

Medical studies have found that mold is the #1 cause of allergic symptoms. The black mold Stachybotrys found in home, office and school environments has been linked to fatal pulmonary disorders.

Signs of Mold:: Discoloration or mold on baseboards, wallboards, or wallpaper. Cracks in shower tile, lack of caulking, loose toilet seal, leaks under sink Carpet and padding in direct contact with concrete slab Poorly maintained or dirty air conditioning/heating vents and filters Damp basement or crawl space Water penetration (water marks on walls, mold spots on walls) Musty/ moldy odor

What is Mold and Where Is It Found?

Molds are microscopic organisms, found virtually everywhere, indoors and outdoors. Molds can be found on plants, foods, dry leaves, and other organic material. Also susceptible to mold growth are cellulose materials, such as, cardboard, paper, ceiling tiles, and sheet rock. Mold spores are easily detached and made airborne by vacuuming, walking on a carpet or sitting on a couch. In indoor environments, mold can grow in air conditioning ducts, carpets, pots of houseplants, etc.

How Can Mold Affect Your Health?

Exposure to mold is not healthy for anyone but the following individuals are at a higher risk for adverse health effects: infants, children, elderly, immune compromised patients, pregnant women, and individuals with existing respiratory conditions. When inhaled, even in small amounts, mold can cause a wide range of health problems including respiratory problems (wheezing), nasal and sinus congestion, watery and red eyes, nose and throat irritation, skin irritation, aches and pains, fevers, asthma, emphysema and in some cases even death. Mold Can Be Found In Many Areas Of Your Home Attic Living Rooms Bathrooms (HVAC) Ventilation System Bedrooms Kitchens Basements Any Moist Areas Carpets Garage

Testing Method:

The WaterMark Mold Test Kit is designed to detect dangerous molds that may be in your home or office. The test kit offers three different analytical sampling methods:

Method 1: (visual sampling) simply involves taking a sample of a visual mold growth.
Method 2: (HVAC air sampling) allows you to take an air sample of the air-conditioning or heating system
Method 3: (settling plate) allows you to take an air sample of a location which does not have an HVAC system.

After the 48 hour incubation period, positive samples are sent to a lab for a detailed analysis of the exact type of mold present.