Mold & Indoor Air Quality Services

Background on Molds

Molds are simple, microscopic organisms, present virtually everywhere, indoors and outdoors. There are many different types of mold spores and they affect all individuals differently. For molds or fungi to grow and reproduce they need moisture and a food source which can be any organic material, such as leaves, wood, paper, or dirt. Because molds grow by digesting the organic material, they gradually destroy whatever they grow on. Mold growth left untreated can cause serious damage to the structural elements in your home. Mold growth on surfaces can often be seen in the form of discoloration, frequently green, gray, brown, or black but also white and other colors.

Many people are unaware of mold growing in their homes until family members start having allergic reactions or symptoms. According to the CDC, mold in your home can cause mild to serious health hazards. Exposure to molds can cause symptoms such as nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, wheezing, or skin irritation. People with serious allergies or chronic illnesses can react more severely.

In 2004, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) found there was sufficient evidence to link indoor exposure to mold with upper respiratory tract symptoms, cough, and wheeze in otherwise healthy people, with asthma symptoms in people with asthma, and with hypersensitivity pneumonitis in individuals susceptible to that immune-mediated condition. The IOM also found limited or suggestive evidence linking indoor mold exposure and respiratory illness in otherwise healthy children.

Testing & Procedures

The Indoor Air Quality Association qualifies AEC’s team of mold professionals to conduct assessments, inspections, and protocols. Mold and air quality sampling is conducted utilizing a high-volume pump and a certified spore-trap cassette. Bulk or swab sampling for molds and fungi may also be necessary. AEC technicians utilize other resources when conducting inspections too, like moisture meters and infrared cameras to help with detecting problem areas. Samples must be analyzed under a microscope at an accredited laboratory.

Our Services

We can offer indoor air quality sampling, bulk swab sampling, HVAC inspections, crawl space or other non-livable space visual inspections, remediation protocols for the safe removal of mold contamination, as well as post remediation clearances and sampling.

Give us a call today for a free assessment!