Mold can start to grow in any home due to excess moisture caused by flooding, roofing damage, leaking air ducts, or malfunctioning water-based appliances. When mold starts to set in, you may notice a variety of unwanted issues such as a musty odor and health problems like allergy symptoms and respiratory problems. Here's a guide to mold testing, so you know how to pinpoint the issue and boost indoor air quality for a comfortable, safe home. 

Understanding Mold Testing Options

DIY Mold Testing Kits

Hardware stores and online retailers sell DIY mold testing kits. These readily available products allow homeowners to swab an area they suspect has mold and combine it with a chemical solution that reacts if mold is present. Other options require the user to leave a dish or "settle plate" out in a room for 24 to 48 hours to see if mold spores land in the dish, indicating an issue. 

While some individuals may be able to identify a mold problem using these devices, they can be unpredictable depending on where you place the dish or take the sample swab. In addition, the kits cannot tell you what type of mold is present, the volume of mold, and the source of the issue. 

Professional Mold Inspections

In contrast, a professional mold inspection includes air quality testing. Using modern equipment, a trained technician can scan all of your living spaces to check for mold spores. Air will be monitored, sampled, and tested in a professional laboratory setting where it will be compared to normal air quality levels to identify problems. 

By working with a professional and choosing a comprehensive inspection, you'll be able to identify all traces of mold, the volume of spores, what type of mold is present, and where the mold growth is coming from. With a full picture, you can work with your contractors for effective mold remediation while conducting household repairs to prevent future spores from developing and thriving. 

If you're looking for professional mold testing using state-of-the-art equipment, American Environmental Laboratories is perfect for the job. Since 1989, this dedicated team of technicians has helped clients in the greater St. Louis, MO, area maintain excellent indoor air quality through comprehensive inspections and mold remediation. To schedule an appointment, call today at (314) 664-2800. For a closer look at their approach and commitment to customer satisfaction, visit their website.