First: It is important to understand why mold is growing in a home.  Our inspectors can tell you possible reasons why the home is experiencing a problem with mold growth and what repairs are needed to eliminate mold growth in the home.

There are basically two different mold testing methodologies; Culturable/viable (alive) sampling and Non-culturable (spores that are alive or dead).

Healthy Home Inspections uses the latest technology and equipment to perform Non-Culturable mold sampling.

 

 

 

Culturable/Viable Samples

A culturable sample is the method used to grow mold from spores collected on site. Using a Petri dish, an agar media, and one of the collection methods listed below, mold spores are deposited into the agar. The dish is then sealed, sent to a laboratory and given time (2 to 3 weeks) to grow.

§                           Swab Lift

§                           Bulk Sample

§                           Impact Sampler

A disadvantage of culturable testing is the incomplete information provided by the final results. The mold(s) that grow in the Petri dish are influenced by the agar media used, the atmospheric conditions (temperature, humidity), and the other mold species that are competing for space and food (the agar).

The primary disadvantage, according the BSU (Ball State University), is that sampling results only affect the concentration of mold spores that are alive and can grow in the agar media being used, yet more than 80-95% of the spores in the air are not viable." They go on to reinforce the fact that "mold spores can cause allergic reactions and asthmatic attacks even if they are no longer alive."

 Non-culturable Samples

Non-culturable samples provide a more accurate picture of the mold present in the home or office. This method of sampling collects spores onto a slide     which is then sent to a laboratory for concentration counts and genus identification. Results from these samples can be returned within 24 hours with expedited service. Non-culturable sampling does not allow for species recognition which is its major limitation. Samples may be taken from one area of visible contamination or as an air sample to determine the number of spores in the breathing environment.

§                           Tape Lift

§                              Air-O-Cell/Micro 5

The Air-O-Cell/Micro 5 method is deemed the most reliable when attempting to determine if a mold problem exists. When using this air sampling method, a sample must be drawn from the area of suspected contamination, as well as from the outdoor environment. It is only through the comparison of the concentrations and species that a determination can be made of the possible mold infestation.

As stated by BSU, total mold spore sampling has the advantage of collecting most airborne spores that are drawn into the collector. Since allergenicity is independent of viability, results from this method are in most cases a much better indicator of health risks than the culturable/viable method.

The Air-O-Cell cassette has one major advantage; it can be used to determine the presence of Stachybotrys and other mold species inside wall cavities.

Call 770-554-0575 today or contact us via this website to schedule a mold test appointment.