Advantages of Mold & Moisture Services

Testing for mold can be very costly. However, ProTec has come up with packages to drastically cut the cost when combined with another specialty, commercial, and residential inspection services. Our experts know the things to look for in the course of checking for mold and will only suggest services for mold sampling when they become imperative. We have state-of-the-art technology used to collect samples of the air instantly and collaborate with local labs to obtain the results of mold testing in no time. Our quick turnaround assists us to avoid delaying the negotiation of your contract or due date and have the problem resolved within the shortest possible time.

Do you know that 70 percent of US households have molds? Identify and get rid of these unwanted particles with Mold Inspection professionals at District Inspect.

What is Mold?

Mold is a type of fungus with small organisms present everywhere in the house. You can find them in orange, purple, green, white and orange color. Mold spores are usually harmless but begin to grow once they land on a damp spot. These spores, when inhaled, can result in severe health implications.

When to inspect for Mold?

The best thing about molds is that they are visible inside the house. Noticing molds in the walls’ cracks and corners means the spores are spreading by leaps and bounds. It is impossible to see them at places such as ducts or areas between the walls. They are so small that it is impossible to view them with a naked eye. You should get the mold inspected if you come across the following situations:

Water Damage

If your basement is flooded with water or leakage in the roof, then the mold inspection is definitely the need of an hour. The place was expected to dry within 24 to 48 hours became impossible due to mold.

Purchasing a New Home

It is impossible to determine the water damage in the house you are planning to purchase. Mold inspection helps you identify it.

After House Purchase

Once the house has been occupied, humidity often leads to mold growth in the house. The coastal regions of South California are warmer and experience high humidity, and must be inspected for mold.

After Mold Remediation

If you have taken stringent steps to get rid of the mold in the house. Mold inspections instill confidence that you are free from it.If you find any green, blue or black stuff in your home it get in touch with Mold Inspection professionals to get rid of them.

Our Process

Residents can live inside the house comfortably when their dream home is safe and secure. You get to know about the flaws in the home well in advance. Obtain complete information on both structural and mechanical aspects of the house via mold inspections.

Mold inspection is a routine process and is generally performed on the entire house by the mold inspector. Sign the contract, and you are all set to hire a mold inspector. Continuing with the terms or backing out from the contract is entirely up to you. Our mold inspection process is quite simple and transparent and involves the following steps:

The mold service  appropriate for you

The assessment of mold undertaken by us gives you very useful guidance on ways of addressing likely mold-related problems in your apartment.

The assessment carried out by us entails internal and external inspection of abodes for mold as well as factors that promote their growth,  internal infrared scans, sampling of the air for the levels of airborne spores and testing in the laboratory. Our detailed report entails analyzing data in the laboratory to determine the types as well as the number of mold spores present in your apartment.

Meeting with the Inspector at Property

It would be best if you meet the inspector at the property. It allows you to probe anything related to the inspections. Once the inspection is over, the inspector informs you of the issues uncovered by him.

Inspection of Every Nook and Cranny

We render quality and budget-friendly mold inspection services in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC. Every part of the house is thoroughly checked during the mold inspections. Our professionals ensure that nothing from the basement to doors and windows is left. The mold inspector will run water and inform you about the plumbing issues. Our Mold inspections usually last for 2 to 4 hours, depending on the size of the home.

Share Reports with you

You are going to receive the reports after the successful completion of the inspection. Colored photos will be provided, and areas that need to be fixed will be highlighted. Share a copy with the homeowners who will resolve the issues before the move.

All the steps are performed and documented by our mold inspection professionals to live in it is quite safe and comfortable.

Mold inspection vs. Mold Testing

Mold inspection helps to determine the presence of mold and is generally calculated in square footage. Mold Testing gives you an idea about the specific type of mold present in the house or mold spores present in the air. Mold testing is quite expensive, but we have budget-friendly packages for commercial and residential spaces. Our team of professionals generally highlights the areas with mold along with moisture or water damage.

What happens during a Mold inspection?

Mold inspectors arrive at your property which is making you curious about the things performed by them.Our team of professionals performs the following steps during the mold inspection:

Visual Inspection of Mold Sources

The process of mold inspection takes place after a discussion with you. Initially, sources of mold are generally taken into account. The age and the history of inspection also play a significant role during the process. It is the prior experience of our mold inspection professionals which makes the process so smooth.

Surface Sampling or Testing

Surface sampling is the next step, proceeding with a visual inspection. Our professionals take a part of the sampled area to the labs. A swab that resembles cotton wool is rubbed across certain surfaces for testing. At times, the mold removal is performed using tape. The results will certainly take some time and make some efforts to get rid of it.

Air Sampling

Air sampling is performed using different methods. The air present in the house is sampled while determining the mold. The professionals take the samples to the lab for testing. Once the results are out, you can take some steps to eradicate it.

Mold Remediation

The entire mold inspection process is incomplete without the mold remediation process. The remediation process is all about finding the root cause and eliminating it.

How much does a mold inspection cost?

The mold inspection cost depends on the building or apartment’s size and the inspection service opted by you. Some companies would charge extra for sampling and testing. Reap the benefits of our mold inspection packages instead of paying separately for each one of them.

Factors affecting the cost of mold inspection

Finding the right mold inspector

It is difficult to obtain the exact cost of mold inspection as it depends on several factors. Factors affecting the cost of  inspection is listed as follows:

Size of the Area Affected by the Mold

Materials lower than 10 square feet fall under small costs and are removed by the mold inspectors at a nominal fee. In case the mold is present in small areas and easy to clean surfaces, then you can get rid of it on your own. Besides this, you have to spend a great deal of money on cleaning the mold. This is why you should go for professional inspection for mold.

Type of Mold Remediation Procedure

Mold removal companies follow different types of Mold Remediation procedures. Every mold job is different, and at times more than one mold removal process is performed on it.With restoration, the cost of the overall process will surge.

Preventing mold

You can’t have a mold-proof home but can take steps to prevent its formation. Our mold inspection professionals have come up with some practical mold prevention tips for you:

1. Dry Wet Areas Immediately: Mold growth is impossible without moisture. If you suspect any wet areas, dry them immediately. Seepage, leaks, and carpet spills must be dried as soon as possible. Ensure that the floors and walls are dried before the shower. Mold formation takes place when clothes are left in the washing machine.
2. Installing Ventilation Systems to Prevent Moisture: Daily activities is one of the leading causes of mold formation. Install a proper ventilation system in the high-moisture areas. Make sure that the window is opened after water-based tasks are over.
3. Monitor indoor humidity: Purchase a moisture meter to determine the indoor humidity within the premises. Problem areas help determine humidity within the house.

Have adequate knowledge of the climatic condition, especially when you are residing in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC.

Mold Regulations

No matter how much efforts you make to keep the house spic and span, you will still find traces of mold on it. It is impossible to eradicate molds present in different areas of the house. All you can provide is an environment that is mold-free and keeps everyone around you healthy.OSHA(Occupational Safety and Health Administration) has implemented some mold regulations for you listed below:

Mold Basics

What is mold? How it grows, and when it starts becoming an issue?

Health Implications

At present, there are no limits on mold concentrations.OSHA highlights negative consequences related to mold exposure, and actions taken by you at the workplace surges the issue.

Prevention

This section comprises some mold prevention tips:

1. Prevent moisture from getting out of control.
2. Repairing leaks often take place.
3. Keep the humidity below 70 percent.
4. Have adequate ventilation and drainage systems on your premises.
5. Perform inspections in the areas where there’s a possibility of mold growth.

Mold Remediation

OSHA has come up with guidelines regarding the steps to be taken after the mold is detected. It also includes what to wear and techniques to be implemented to get rid of it.

Everything you must know About Mold Removal And Remediation?

Mold Testing and Mold Remediation

One can see or smell the mold easily inside the home. Despite all the efforts, it remains undetected. Testing is an important process that eliminates all the spores and allows you to form a proper removal plan according to the type. Mold testing is an integral aspect of mold inspection, and the molds undergo three significant types of testing listed below:

Sampling

Different samples inside the house are compared with a controlled sample from outside. These samples are generally taken to the labs to determine elevated levels of mold spores.

Tape Swab Testing

The type of mold spores present inside the home are usually detected with tape swab testing. There are so many different types of molds that are narrowed down via this method.

Lift Tape Sampling

 Lift tape sampling testing involves placing the tape on the surface where mold is present. These are optimized under the micro-glass slide, and the presence of mold spores is determined.

Mold Remediation

Once molds present at different sections have been determined, get rid of them with the five-step process known as mold remediation. Every step is crucial as it would bring the mold levels back to normal. Inspection, contamination, air filtering, cleaning, and sanitization are usually performed on the mold.

The Hidden Dangers Of Mold Exposure

Do you know that 7 million deaths occur due to home air pollution and are the leading cause of diseases? Most of the time, you can see or smell the mold. Mold present in the house gives rise to the following health issues:

1. Running noses
2. Skin Irritation and itching
3. Dizziness
4. Asthma 
5. Sneezing

Health implications get worse in the ones with a pre-existing health condition and mold allergies. You can safeguard the health by getting the early signs of mold detected from Mold inspection professionals near you.

Facts about Mold Inspection

No one wants to reside in a house filled with mold. Adequate knowledge about mold can help you prevent and eliminate it. Here is the list of lesser-known facts related to molds:

Mold is Everywhere

Molds are responsible for the decomposition of organic matter. Molds spores are found everywhere inside the house. The real issue arises when these spores start growing in the moist regions of the house.

Mold Growth Takes Place on Several Surfaces

Mold starts growing in the moist areas of the home. They prefer organic surfaces for growth instead of non-organic ones. Mold growth on a non-organic surface results in the formation of dust and dirt on the surface.

Mold Can Grow Between 24 to 48 Hours

The rapid mold growth takes place between 24 to 48 hours. The food source is an ideal condition for mold growth.

Insurance Policies Don’t Cover Mold Growth

Insurance policies cover mold growth in certain situations. If fire or water damages are the leading causes of mold growth, then mold remediation is covered in the insurance.

Prolonged Mold Exposure Results in Health Problem.

Exposure to mold for extended durations would give rise to health concerns:

1. Chronic Fatigues and Headaches.
2. Runny nose, Dizziness, and nasal congestion.
3. Asthma and lung inflammation.
4. Skin irritation accompanied by rashes.

Quality mold inspections and elimination can prevent health problems from getting worse.

What You Will Get From Me?

Nothing brings you peace of mind that a house free of allergies is caused due to molds. It is only possible when you have a reliable mold inspection company by your side. A thorough assessment is performed on different sections of the house, and documents highlighting them are prepared. Consult us anytime as we will perform the inspection on your premises. Our business is fully insured, licensed, and certified in all inspection disciplines.

FAQ

How do you test for Mold in your house?

Mold is present everywhere and covers every damp place inside your home. Some of them are visible and can be determined after certain tests are performed on them. The presence of mold is determined with the following types of tests.

Bulk Sampling

A part of the mold is physically removed and sent to mold test labs for detection.

Swab Samples

A cotton swab is generally rubbed against the area being sampled and sent to the mold test laboratory for analysis.

Tape Sampling

A clear tape is removed from the area being sampled and is sent for mold test to the laboratory.

The type of mold and its presence can only be determined with these tests generally carried by our home inspection professionals.

How much is a professional mold test cost?

The cost of mold inspection depends on several factors. It is generally affected by the size of the building or apartment, and the parts of the property are to be removed. Mold tests are quite expensive, but we have introduced home inspection packages that cover everything.

What happens during a mold inspection?

Molds present in damp areas of the house have become a cause of concern among millions of Americans. In recent years health experts have highlighted the health issues that generally occur due to these microscopic invaders. Mold inspection is a way to check the presence of molds in different areas of the house and steps to be taken to get rid of them. Our professionals covered during the mold inspection process:

Consultation

The mold inspection process usually commences with the consultation. After the consultation the inspectors watch out for the signs of mold growth.The age of the property and house’s history is generally kept into account.

Testing

Testing is an integral part of the home inspection process. The home inspector brings proper equipment to collect the samples.

Underlying causes are Highlighted

Quality inspections aren’t about finding the mold which is detected. It is all about highlighting the structural and environmental problems giving rise to these issues.

Our professionals highlight things causing mold build-up, and measures are taken to prevent them from coming back.

Can I test Mold myself?

You can test the mold yourself if you have the right equipment and mold kit. Mold detection demands a heavy initial investment followed by the right technique to find it. Instead of getting into all these hassles seeking assistance from home inspection professionals is a better idea as they know what to do and how to do?

What happens during a Mold Inspection?

The mold inspections work similar to an investigation. The main aim is to accomplish the following goals:

1. Determine the cause of mold
2. To know the extent of contamination and the kind of mold present.

The following main actions are performed during home inspections:

Looking for Visual Clues

 After entering the premises, both landscape and seepage is inspected. Other areas of the house are also covered in it.

Probing

The home inspector is going to ask the residents a couple of questions related to the home. Answers would help him determine the origin of these issues.

Humidity

Mold development takes place in areas with high humidity. Our professionals render their valuable services in three major regions, including Virginia, Washington DC, Maryland, and humidity levels are calculated during the process.

Detailed Report

A detailed report is prepared, and mold-affected areas are covered in it.

After taking the report, take stringent steps to mitigate the mold present in the house.

Measuring moisture levels

Before purchasing the house, the signs of moisture are generally inspected, which is the leading cause of mold growth and has severe health implications. The amount of humidity present inside the home is more than 50 percent. The moisture levels present in the house can be detected in the following ways:

1. Look for water stains on the walls and floors. Cabinets, empty spaces, and places under the carpets, attics, and areas outside the walls are generally looked for.
2. Check the areas inside the windows for condensation of ice and frost. Look for rusting and sweating pipes.
3. The inner section of the home looks musty or damp. Both are the signs of mold, mildew, and moisture.
4. The concrete or missionary areas for chipping, rusting and powdery built up are usually examined.

Sampling Suspect Mold

The right sampling procedure gives accurate mold test results. Submitting inaccurate samples and adopting the wrong sampling approach is one of the biggest mistakes made by home inspection professionals. We have highlighted some ways the exact sampling techniques for suspecting the mold for you:

1. Non-viable air samples are collected in agar dishes containing malt extract agar.
2. Bulk samples are basically the pieces of materials generally taken from contaminated building materials.
3. Swab sampling: As the name implies is collected using swabs(Cotton-like material) and sent to labs for analysis.
4. Surface scrapped samples are taken from the moldy materials and are labeled for analysis.

How to Get a Mold Inspection?

Getting the mold inspection is very easy; just call our experts to know how we can help.