Frequestly Asked Questions

Q: Do I need my air tested for mold?
A: Air sampling can be a very valuable evaluation tool but may not always be necessary. If visible mold is present, then it should be remediated, regardless of what species are present. In specific instances, such as cases where health concerns are an issue, litigation is involved, or the source(s) of contamination is unclear, sampling may be considered as part of a total building evaluation. Sampling is needed in situations where visible mold is present and there is a need to have the mold species identified.

If you suspect mold contamination but it is not visibly detected after inspection, then sampling may help determine if mold amplification is occurring or if mold reservoirs are present. If mold is being removed and there is a question about how far the growth extends, then surface or bulk sampling in combination with moisture readings may be a useful evaluation strategy.

There are several types of sampling available so professionals experienced with mold issues should be consulted to conduct any sampling. If samples are taken, regardless of the purpose, the results should help answer a clear question. Note that laboratories vary in cost, experience, and proficiency so it is recommended that an EMLAP-accredited lab (AIHA) is always used for the analysis.

Q: Are indoor air pollutants dangerous?
A: The presence of certain mold & mold spores can cause mild to severe health effects in humans and can deteriorate the building materials in the dwelling possibly resulting in structural damage or loss of value.

Q: What are the health effects associated with exposure to mold?
A: Health effects can include but are not limited to:

• Asthma
• allergy symptoms
• watery eyes
• sneezing
• difficulty breathing
• headaches
• sinus congestion
• blurry vision
• sore throat
• dry cough
• fever
• aches and pains
• skin irritation

Bleeding of the lungs and memory loss has been reported but a cause and effect relationship has not been definitively proven.

Q: Will everyone in my home be affected in the same way?
A: As humans vary greatly in their biological make up, so does an individual’s reaction to mold exposure. For some people, a small number of mold spores can cause ill effects. In others it may take a longer time. Persons with the following conditions may be more susceptible to mold exposure:
• Infants and children
• Elderly
• Pregnant women
• Individuals with respiratory conditions or allergies and asthma
• Persons with compromised immune systems (for example, chemotherapy patients, organ or bone marrow transplant recipients, and people with HIV infections or autoimmune diseases)

Q: I have mold, now what?
A: If you have identified mold it needs to be removed. Environmental Technology Solutions can guide you through this process or you may wish to seek the additional advice of an independent mold remediation specialist for further consultation.

Q: How often should I get my home tested?
A: The Environmental Institute recommends additional evaluations when conditions change in your home. Of prime concern is the period after water intrusion or when excessive humidity or moisture has been recognized.

Q: What are your qualifications?
A: All of our representatives have gone through a comprehensive training class and testing that was developed by renowned microbiologist and Dr. John Shane, PhD. All evaluations and sampling are done under the technical supervision of a Certified Industrial Hygienist.