There are over 100,000 types of mold and they all play an important role in the environment by breaking down organic matter. When outside on the forest floor, they are a healthy part of the eco-system, but they become problematic when they form colonies in your home or business due to the allergens, irritants, and sometimes toxic substances they produce.
There are no EPA or federal limits set for mold or mold spores indoors. Quite often a visual inspection is enough to determine the presence of mold, but it can also hide between walls, behind wallpaper, behind tile, in air ducts, under sinks- anywhere that moisture collects. If you are noticing musty smells or having mysterious allergic reactions that subside when away from home, an Indoor Air Quality Test can help you understand what you are being exposed to. Mold should be treated and removed whenever it is discovered to prevent it from spreading and further damaging your property and your health.
Health problems due to mold can range from minor to severe depending on an individual’s sensitivity, the type/quantity of mold present, and the route of exposure. Allergic reactions may be itchy watery eyes, difficulty breathing, tightness in chest, skin irritation, sinus infections, cough, headache, fatigue. Severe reactions to the mycotoxins in certain molds may include depression, memory loss, lung and skin infections, immune system disorders, bone marrow disease, even meningitis. If you suspect you are having health issues related to mold exposure, consult a healthcare professional and schedule an Indoor Air Quality Test. If you are a renter, inform your property manager.
Many at home mold testing kits are inaccurate, their results are not considered reliable and cannot be submitted as evidence to insurance companies or in court. They also lack the detail that you get with a professional mold test.
Tips for Preventing Mold Growth
- Ideal indoor humidity is between 30% and 60%
- Prioritize Sufficient airflow and ventilation.
- Use exhaust fans in bathroom and kitchen.
- Fix any water leaks swiftly.
- Dry water damaged areas within 24-48 hours using fans and dehumidifiers.
- Avoid letting wet things stay wet (towels, clothes, countertops, etc)
Indoor Air Quality Tips
- Change HVAC air filters as recommended on manufacturer packaging
- Use HVAC filters rated for mold and allergens
- Get annual duct cleaning
- Vacuum and dust regularly
- Use Air Purifiers like Levoit
BioteamAZ provides professional Indoor Air Quality testing and Mold testing services in Phoenix, Mesa, Scottsdale, Glendale, and throughout Arizona. Our basic test will measure the presence and concentration of several of the most common species of mold that cause health problems including: Stachybotrys, Cladosporium, Aspergillus, and Fusarium, as well as other indoor air pollutants. We offer both 24 hour and 7 day Indoor Air Quality and Mold test results. If we find any readings that are concerning, we can help guide you through the process of decontaminating the property and your belongings.
