GREENER LIVING with 'Dr. G'
aka Gary 'Dr. G' Ginsberg
Toxicology Expert * Consumer Advocate * Talk Radio Advisor
MOLD TEST
Mold gets a lot of attention because it pops up in many homes as an unsightly and odorous growth on walls, ceilings, carpeting and other furnishings. Even worse than this, mold can cause health effects. But the mold problem has been overhyped as many have latched onto the concept of "toxic" mold. Common exposures in most homes will not damage the lungs or be toxic. In most cases, it only produces allergic reactions in some individuals. Mold grows where there is sufficient moisture. Fixing mold problems involves a few basic steps that many can take on their own, sometimes needing professional help. The CDC also offers a good basic primer to help you get started.
IF YOU SEE OR SMELL MOLD GROWING IN YOUR HOUSE, TAKE OUR TEST:
1) If you do not see mold growing larger than a 10 foot area, then your home has no obvious mold problem.
You can generally trust a visual inspection and if there is no major visible problem then there is usually no reason to undergo more elaborate testing. However, if you suspect mold growth inside walls or ceiling panels, you may want to call in a professional.
Mold investigations involve the following basic steps. You can do much of this yourself with visual inspection. Call in a professional inspector in hard to diagnose cases. Testing the air or surfaces for mold is usually not needed but is often recommended by inspectors. Watch out for this pitfall.
Step 1. Identify all areas where mold is growing.
Step 2. Look for the Moisture Source - common sources are excess humidity, roof or foundation leaks during heavy rain, leaky plumbing, condensation, etc.
Step 3. Evaluate the extent of the mold growth. Is it in one confined area or has it spread into clothing, books, carpeting, etc.
Step 4. Consider looking for hidden mold inside of walls or ceiling panels. If these areas have gotten wet in the past, they may harbor mold growth. If this is the case, you may really need a professional.
Is the area with mold growth greater than 10 feet?
Large cleanups are best handled by a Professional Clean Up Company but beware. Many companies have been jumping into the mold cleanup business. Some are more reputable than others. Try to find a company that has been around for at least several years. Ask if they have had professional training in mold remediation. Most states do not require an official mold remediation certificate. Be wary of companies that claim to have governmental certification.
Ask the company what precautions they will take to prevent the spread of mold spores throughout the rest of the house during cleanup. They should follow standard mold cleanup guidelines as established by the New York City Dept. of Health.
For more info. go to our book What's Toxic, What's Not and USEPA's (US Environmental Protection Agency) website.
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