Skip to main content

We detect what you suspect.

DNA Testing Changes How We Detect And Treat Mold

Written by Martine Davis on . Posted in Air Quality Testing, Indoor Environmental Testing, Mold Inspection.

Mold has recently become a hot-button issue, with horror stories appearing on the news of unsuspecting people suffering from devastating illnesses caused by harmful fungi. Lawsuits against landlords and builders are increasing as more people seek legal help for compensation for mold-related sickness. It begs the question, “Why now?”

Since ancient times, humans have lived with mold, with texts like the Bible referencing the toxic substance. If mold has existed for thousands of years, why is there so much interest in it now? Has it become more toxic than 10, 20, or 50 years ago? What’s changed?

The Impact of Scientific Research on Understanding Mold

While some scientists have theorized that mold is now more toxic than it was in the past, the most likely answer is that improved detection techniques make it easier to find hidden mold. The days of searching for mold spores in air samples are behind us. We now know ingestion isn’t the only way this fungus can cause sickness. Some strains are more harmful than others, and we now have the tools to identify and address mold and mycotoxin exposure. As more studies come out, we find that mycotoxins in buildings can be inhaled or absorbed through skin contact with mycotoxin-rich dust.

Mold Detection and Symptom Identification

It’s now possible to detect elevated mold counts and toxic species in a variety of areas, including:

  • Household dust
  • Furniture
  • Carpet
  • Furnaces
  • Mini-Splits and air conditioners
  • Heating and cooling systems
  • Ductwork
  • Air purifiers
  • Dehumifiers
  • Mattresses
  • C-PAP machines
  • Car ventilation systems, upholstery and carpeting

Mold spores were likely present in these locations before but were untreated due to a lack of understanding of the signs of mycotoxin poisoning. Research into the topic unveiled unexpected symptoms previously unknown to scientists. For example, toxic black mold under the kitchen sink may cause dizziness or shortness of breath while cleaning the dishes. Sufferers would seek medical help only to receive a diagnosis of a vague ailment like hypersensitivity pneumonitis, a lung inflammation, or vertigo. For many, the symptoms would continue as they underwent unsuccessful treatments that failed to target the real culprit.

Exciting Advancements in Mold Detection

Advanced DNA extraction techniques like MSqPCR (Mold-Specific quantitative PCR) have improved mold awareness and solved mysterious illnesses. While we already knew that mold and mold toxins caused sickness, including liver and kidney damage, cancers, and even death, inspectors lacked the necessary lab tests to identify the fungus in indoor spaces.Now, however, healthcare workers can test a patient’s blood for mold exposure markers, opening doors to effective treatments that were once closed. Armed with these new testing techniques, our knowledge of mold and its effects has skyrocketed.

More than a decade after implementing this new technology, we can better understand and link occupants’ symptoms with mold contamination in buildings and even identify which mold species cause the strongest reactions.

The History of Mold Detection

In 2004, the Institute of Medicine released a report titled ” Damp Indoor Spaces and Health,” which would pave the way for modern-day advancements in mold detection. It outlined the results of a study showing the connection between damp indoor spaces and mold to illness. The report recommended developing better measurement methods for specific microorganisms using DNA-based and other advanced technologies.


As a result of this report, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) developed a DNA-based test called the ERMI (Environmental Relative Mold Index) that provides a straightforward, objective, sensitive, and standardized method of assessing mold markers in indoor spaces. The test uses dust samples collected from homes and provides highly accurate results. It is important to note that the EPA considers the ERMI a research tool and doesn’t recommend it as the sole testing technique for residential or commercial spaces.

As time progressed, air-quality professionals began using a similar DNA-based testing technique to identify mold in buildings. These techniques drastically improved the ability to discover mold in areas where previous air sample tests could not. These discoveries led to a more comprehensive understanding of what happens when mold is disturbed. It also answered the questions of why people were becoming sick during mold remediation and whether a person transports mold when moving from one contaminated space to one without mold (the mold spores attach to their belongings, contaminating the new space.)

In 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) concluded that dampness and mold in interior spaces led to a 30% to 50% increase in respiratory and asthma-related sickness. They also found a correlation with higher ERMI values in homes and a greater likelihood of asthma among occupants. Understanding proper cleaning techniques and the best way to remove mold fragments, mycotoxins, and other mold by-products greatly impacted how professionals treated mold infestations.

Conclusion

Recognizing water damage, moisture, and visible mold remain important aspects of mold inspections, but new technologies allow us to see once-invisible spores. We now understand why some people exhibit symptoms even when mold isn’t easily identified. As in law enforcement, DNA technology is an increasingly powerful forensic tool changing the game for mold inspectors and healthcare workers alike.

 

Why mold testing is especially important for high-humidity areas

Written by Martine Davis on . Posted in Mold Inspection, Mold Prevention.

Mold is a serious issue that affects many homes and buildings, particularly those in high-humidity areas. High humidity levels provide an ideal environment for mold growth, which can have severe consequences for both the building’s occupants and the structure itself. This article will explore why mold testing is especially important for high-humidity areas, the dangers of mold growth, and prevention methods for avoiding mold growth.

What is Mold?

Mold is a type of fungus that grows in damp environments. It reproduces by releasing spores into the air, which can spread quickly and easily throughout a building. There are many different types of mold, some of which can be toxic and pose a serious health risk to humans and animals. Mold can grow on almost any surface, including walls, floors, and ceilings, and can cause significant damage to the structure over time.

High-Humidity Areas

High-humidity areas are those with a relative humidity level of 60% or higher. Examples of high-humidity areas include bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, basements and crawlspaces. These areas are more susceptible to mold growth because moisture on surfaces provides an ideal environment for mold to thrive. High humidity levels can also lead to health issues, including respiratory problems and allergies.

The Importance of Mold Testing

Mold testing is the process of identifying the type and amount of mold present in a building. This is done by taking air and/or surface samples and sending them to a laboratory for analysis. Mold testing is important because it can identify hidden mold growth that may not be visible to the naked eye. It can also identify the type of mold present, which can sometimes be important from a medical standpoint.

Signs of Mold Growth

Visible signs of mold growth include black, green, or white patches on walls, floors, or ceilings. Another sign of mold growth is a musty odor, which is caused by the release of microbial gases released in the air by molds. Health symptoms associated with mold exposure include respiratory problems, allergies, headaches, dizziness, brain fog/confusion and fatigue.

Prevention of Mold Growth in High-Humidity Areas

Preventing mold growth in high-humidity areas involves controlling humidity levels, ensuring proper ventilation, and regular cleaning. Humidity levels should be kept below 60% by using dehumidifiers and air conditioning systems. Proper ventilation can be achieved by using exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, and opening windows to allow fresh air to circulate. Regular cleaning should include wiping down surfaces with a solution of soap and water, to remove dust (mold food) and mold spores. Additionally, any leaks or water damage should be repaired immediately to prevent mold growth. Vinegar and bleach should be avoided as they release toxic fumes into the air (acetic acid and chlorine respectively). 

Hiring a Professional Mold Testing Service

While it is possible to test for mold on your own, hiring a professional mold testing service is highly recommended. These services have specialized equipment that can detect even small amounts of mold that may be hidden from view. They can also provide a detailed report on the type and amount of mold present, as well as recommendations for remediation.

When choosing a mold testing service, it is important to do your research and choose a reputable company with experience in testing for mold. Look for companies that are certified by organizations such as the IICRC or ACAC. interview the prospective mold inspector and find out if the HVAC components will be tested, if walls and plumbing cavities will be tested. Field experience has now shown that air samples are not effective at finding mold in homes. The cost of mold testing can vary, depending on the size of the building and the extent of the testing required.

During a mold inspection, the professional tester will take air and/or surface samples from various areas of the building (under kitchen sink, behind dishwasher, under vanities, inside ducts, from carpeting, etc.). The samples will then be sent to a laboratory for analysis, and the results will be provided in a detailed report. This report will include information on the type and amount of mold present, as well as recommendations for remediation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mold growth is a serious issue that can have significant consequences for both the building’s occupants and the structure itself. High-humidity areas are particularly susceptible to mold growth, making mold testing especially important in these areas. Prevention methods such as controlling humidity levels, proper ventilation, and regular cleaning can help prevent mold growth. Hiring a professional mold testing service is highly recommended to ensure the most accurate and comprehensive results. By taking these steps, you can protect your home or building from the dangers of mold growth.

For more information about mold testing in high humidity areas, contact Indoor Environmental Testing, Inc. at (800) MY-AIR-TEST.

The mold is inside the wall so it can’t hurt anybody … or can it??

Written by Martine Davis on . Posted in Air Quality Testing, Indoor Environmental Testing, Mold Illness Mold Sickness, Mold Inspection, Mold Prevention.

“It’s inside the walls so it can’t hurt anybody”

As mold inspectors, we hear this almost daily …  This phrase has been uttered by countless builders, landlords, property managers, maintenance personnel, handymen, homeowners, even doctors and mold inspectors themselves!!

So what’s the story on mold inside walls?

People wrongly assume that mold spores are what makes people sick. There are many more components of mold that can be harmful. Yes, it’s true that, in most cases, mold spores do not come out of a wall and into the occupied space, however molds produce toxic gases called MVOCs (Microbial Volatile Organic Compounds) and poisonous mycotoxins, like Trichothecenes for example.

These gases and chemicals CAN easily travel out of wall cavities in the same way sewer gas or carbon monoxide can. They can circulate through electrical outlets, small cracks and under the baseboard. They CAN and DO affect occupants, sometimes in a major way.

For example, an office worker complained of severe headaches, flu- like symptoms, and brain fog when she was in the office. Symptoms went away during weekends when she was home. Her boss was skeptical that anything was wrong with the office but a cavity test of the wall behind her desk revealed Stachybotrys (aka Toxic Black Mold). A roof leak has caused water to drip into the wall cavity and water was pooling behind the baseboard causing active growth. In another case, a woman complained of dizziness any time she was at the kitchen sink. Testing of the area underneath and behind the sink revealed a large quantity of Stachybotrys, aka “toxic black mold“.

Microbial gases are responsible for the musty smell that we associate with mold. If we don’t see mold, sometimes the musty odor is the only sign that mold is present in a room but sometimes, there is no odor to warn us so we can be exposed unknowingly.

With advances in technology, we can now test household dust to confirm that mycotoxins are indeed produced and coming out of wall cavities by matching the mold in the wall with the mycotoxins found in the home dust. The old thinking was that you had to ingest mycotoxins from foods for them to make you sick but we now have evidence that touching or inhaling mycotoxins can poison people and animals.

If the water intrusion has stopped and mold has dried up, what happens?

Mold is no longer active (it is dormant) and may not produce a gas so all is good right? Not so fast! When mold dries up, it becomes more brittle and lightweight and a few spores can become hundreds of microscopic mold fragments that are very inflammatory and able to easily travel and get out of the wall. How do we know this? Because air samples show no abnormalities but DNA testing of the dust in that room will reveal its presence in the room dust! Mycotoxins hitch a ride on dust an these can be found in the room dust too. In addition, molds inside walls could reactivate any time the temperature and humidity are just right so as a precaution, it’s best to safely remove moldy materials.

Mold growth is often accompanied by bacterial growth and mycotoxins production. Bacteria produce toxic by-products called endotoxins which have been shown to cause chronic airway disease in mice. Some scientists believe these are even more poisonous than mycotoxins and mold-literate doctors are now asking patients to test their homes for both mycotoxins and endotoxins.

So mold inside walls should never be ignored unless the quantity is minute. It must be removed with proper controls by a professional mold remediation contractor who will use plastic containment, air scrubbers with negative air pressure and make sure mold will not be dispersed into the rest of the home. Once the mold is removed, the surfaces will then be disinfected and dried.

For more information about mold’s health effects visit the US EPA Mold Page

For information about Biological Pollutants in your home, see this article https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/biological-pollutants-impact-indoor-air-quality#Health_Effects and this information from the CDC about biotoxins

 

Hiring the right mold inspector

Written by Martine Davis on . Posted in Mold Inspection.

Do you know the difference between a bad mold inspection and a good one? Most homeowners don’t and this may lead to disappointment or worse, missing some important mold issues in your home. Here are some questions to ask to get the best mold inspection.Lab Testing

How long should it take?

Some inspectors will check the basement, take one air sample on every floor and call it a day. This is a good business model with a high profit margin but is it sufficient and where does this leave you? A good mold inspection takes a lot of time – 3 to 4 hours for the average house. I’ve had some that took 5 or 6 hours, depending on  the size of the home and how many problems I found. If several technicians conduct the inspection, they might split the work so a 6 hour inspecton can become a 2 hour inspection and that’s ok. The time spent also depends on how many instruments are used and which ones. Check out this page for more on what goes on during a mold inspection. The bottom line is, this can’t be rushed.

What tools or instruments will be used? 

Inspector using the Instascope machine to detect mold in a home
Inspector using an Instascope to instantly detect mold

For example, a home inspector using an Instascope, the latest technology to instantly detect mold, can get a lot of information about the house in less than 1 hour. More investigating is then needed to follow-up on areas where the machine alerted. Will the inspector use a moisture meter and an infrared camera to detect hidden moisture?

These tools are not all necessary. The best mold inspectors can detect a lot with just a flashlight but extra tools may detect something not visible like a leak in the ceiling or under the toilet.

If one is using spore traps, several hours may be required to collect samples in all the suspect places. Spore traps collected in the middle of a room rarely glean valuable information. If mold is inside a wall cavity or under your bath tub, air samples collected from the middle of the room will rarely give you the necessary clues.

What questions should you ask?

Before hiring a mold inspector, ask these questions to gauge the inspector’s depth of knowledge and experience:

      • Will you be testing my carpeting and how will you test it?
      • Where do you typically collect samples?
      • Will you be testing my HVAC system(s)? Evaporator coil? Air returns? Supply vents?
      • What technology do you use to test for mold ? Spore trap, culture plates, DNA testing, dust analysis, mycotoxins testing, Instascope …
      • What tools do you use to inspect the house? Infrared camera, moisture meter, borescope?
  • Will you test under the kitchen sink shelf? behind the dishwasher? inside my ice maker?  under the fridge (there is a nasty drip tray under there that often harbors molds and bacteria which the fridge fan blows your way!). How will you test these?
  • Will  you test under the bathroom vanity shelves, under the tub, behind the shower plumbing?
  • Will you test my bedding (pillows, mattresses)? C-Pap machine? furnace? air conditioner coil? humidifier? How will those be tested?

All of these items can and should be tested if the occupant has biotoxin illness!

Check reviews, references and Better Business Bureau complaints

Other important questions are: How many mold inspections have you conducted? How long have you inspected homes for mold? Do you charge per hour or a flat fee? Are lab fees included?

Educational offerings and mold training in the US are limited. Mold inspector classes cover only the basics. It then takes years of attending professional conferences and continuing education to get the competency homeowners need. Anyone can obtain a mold inspector certificate in a few days and these require little time or knowledge to obtain therefore consumers are left to fend for themselves in a sea of bogus claims and empty promises. So ask a lot of questions and listen to your instincts before hiring!