Category: Mold Testing

Mold Testing: At Home Kits vs Professional Testing

Published on August 28, 2020

Home mold testing units use “settle plate applications.” You set the gave dispense to a particular timeframe, generally 24 to 48 hours, and the spores should fall into the dish. Sadly, bogus negatives and bogus positives are normal with home mold tests. Moreover, regardless of whether the test finds you have mold, it doesn’t distinguish the sort of mold, and whether it is harmful or not. To discover this significant data, you need to send the dish of gathered examples back to the organization that disseminates the testing pack, obviously at an extra expense.

At-Home Mold Kits vs Professional Mold Testing

The outcomes return, and by and large, they are incomprehensible. Rather than saying you have dark mold or that you need dark mold remediation, it will, for instance, give the logical term, “Stachybotrys.” It’s dependent upon you to discover what kind of mold this is and whether you need mold evacuation or remediation.

Where Is the Mold?

Some of the time you can see mold developing. As a rule, you can’t. It’s taking cover behind your dividers, in your roof, or under your rugs. Home test units won’t reveal to you where it is, so without your insight, mold is as yet spreading far out.

CMI’s Tool Kit

CMI’s reports are exact. The examiner’s test for mold with complex instruments, including infra-red hardware, borescopes (to see difficult to reach regions), dampness meters, and hygrometers (to quantify dampness content).

Proficient Mold Testing

It’s critical to recruit an expert natural testing organization that solitary behaviors testing, not mold remediation or mold evacuation, so you are guaranteed of a precise and fair-minded appraisal. A CMI’s assessment will:

Find where and why abundance dampness is entering your property

Direct air observing, air inspecting and mass examining to contrast the outcomes and typical foundation mold levels

Send all examples to autonomous research facilities licensed by the American Industrial Hygiene Association

Recognize the influenced regions and measure the sum and kinds of mold present

Decide whether the wellbeing of your family is in danger and if proficient mold remediation is important

On the off chance that mold expulsion or mold remediation is required, when it is finished, the CMI will come back to your home to lead a last mold testing. This is the best way to make certain all your mold is no more.

Call RestoPros today to have your home professionally tested for mold.

Why Choose RestoPros

At RestoPros in Plano, we have endeavored to manufacture notoriety on our aptitude, demonstrable skill, and difficult work. We realize you have a lot of organizations to browse when you need water damage or mold evacuation pro. Our staff of talented and profoundly prepared experts is the thing that isolates us from the remainder of the group.

Crises occur, which is the reason we offer full-administration, every minute of every day water damage reclamation and mold expulsion administrations for the Plano, Frisco, Dallas region. We’re accessible all day, every day and will work with your insurance agency to limit your cash-based costs. There is no activity too enormous or little. Get in touch with us in the DFW Metroplex today at 855-587-3786 a free estimate.

Benefits of Choosing a Mold Remediation Professional

Published on October 25, 2019

The negative impacts of mold can be worrying and like many homeowners, you might be inclined to test for mold and remove it on your own. While that decision might seem financially feasible and convenient in the moment, you should reconsider. DIY mold testing kits aren’t always reliable, and neither is DIY mold removal. In addition, there are laws that require a licensed professional handle the process of mold removal. We understand if you’re not fully on board with the idea of a professional—to convince you, the RestoPros team has prepared a list of the benefits of choosing a mold remediation professional.

1. Professional Mold Assessment

If you think you have a mold problem because you smell a musty scent, have excess humidity or major leaks, it is best to contact a professional to inspect for mold. As we mentioned earlier, DIY mold testing is unreliable and unhelpful. According to Consumer Reports, mold test kits that can be found at home improvement stores have had major problems. While mold removal is incredibly important, it’s also important to have a trustworthy and safe method of testing for mold. With a mold remediation company, you will get professionals using their knowledge, experience and proper equipment to test for mold in your home. There will be lesser room for any mishaps.

2. Detailed Process of Removal

Following the assessment and testing, there will be a detailed and thorough process of removal. If you choose RestoPros, here is what the mold removal process will look like:

Initial Testing

A licensed mold assessment consultant will come to your home to perform an inspection and take any air quality samples. Based on what they discover, they will write instructions on how to remove the mold.

Removal

We will set up containment around your home to prevent mold spores from spreading to unaffected parts of your home. Then, any affected porous parts such as drywall, carpeting and insulation will be removed – and non-porous parts, such as tiles, will be disinfected.

Air Scrubbing

We will use our air scrubbers (tools used to filter the air and remove bacteria from it) for 24 hours inside the containment area.

Clearance Test

A professional mold removal consultant will ensure your home’s air quality is healthier. After about 72 hours, the consultant will issue clearance and sign a Certificate of Mold Damage Remediation.

3. Certified Expertise and Knowledge

If you’ve been following our blogs for a while, you’re most likely an informed homeowner who knows a lot about mold. However, licensed professionals bring certified expertise to the table and knowledge of, not just mold, but the best methods and tools to remove and prevent it. In addition, professionals will completely sanitize, deodorize and purify the air to ensure healthy air quality, following any mold removal services. They are also informed about insurance options and can even help you file a claim with your insurance company to cover any damage.

Choose RestoPros for Mold Removal Services!

If you are looking for a mold remediation company to test your home for mold, perform mold removal services or water damage restoration, look no further than the professionals at RestoPros! Call us today at 855-587-3786 or fill out a service request form online!

Common Misconceptions About Mold

Published on October 11, 2019

There is a lot of information about mold, its health effects and how you can prevent it – all across the internet. However, since it is the internet, some myths and misconceptions can sneak their way in. Having the right sources and knowledge is integral to becoming a well-informed homeowner. With the right information, you can tackle mold growth safely and confidently. So, to help you figure out which sources and articles can be trusted, the team at RestoPros has developed a list of common misconceptions about mold!

1. Black Mold is Deadly

Black mold has somehow gained a reputation as the deadliest of all mold species. We believe that reputation is a little overhyped. Here are some important facts about black mold that aren’t sensationalized:

Black mold isn’t a specific type or species of mold. The term black mold is often used to describe molds that produce mycotoxins, which are naturally occurring toxins. One of the species known for producing mycotoxins are Stachybotrys charatarum or Stachybotrys atra—this species, which is greenish-black in color, is often referred to as black mold.
It is not rare, but it is not as common as other mold species such as Penicillium, Aspergillus and Alternaria.
The health effects of black mold are dependent on the individual. Adults and children who have weaker immune systems, frequent allergies, and asthma might react to mold exposure and mold spore inhalation.
Black mold can be prevented just like any other mold species: By avoiding excess moisture and by maintaining cleanliness.

2. You Can DIY Mold Removal

There are several unreliable sources that say you can test and remove mold all by yourself and ultimately save money. While you might be inclined to go on this route, take a moment to reconsider. Mold testing kits aren’t always reliable and there are many states have laws about mold removal. These regulations often require that mold related activities such as assessment and remediation be handled by a licensed professional. In addition, mold often starts growing in porous areas (such as drywall) and it can be hard to remove mold on your own from porous materials. Because of these reasons, it is best to leave mold removal to the experts.

3. Mold is Rare

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, mold is very common in homes and buildings—it can be found in indoor environments if it has the right moisture content and nutrients. So, while you might think mold could never grow in your home, think again. Mold spores are in great quantity all around us and there isn’t anything particularly wrong with that. The problem is when they settle in a specific area in our home and start to grow.

4. No Odor, No Mold

Sure, mold might have a distinct musty smell, but just because you don’t smell any odor doesn’t mean you don’t have a mold problem. While an odor is a sign of mold, it isn’t the only sign of mold. The best way to know whether you have mold or not is to have an inspection done. Experts can perform professional mold testing and discover whether you have a significant mold problem or not.

Contact RestoPros For Mold Removal Services

We hope this list of common misconceptions about mold has been helpful. If you suspect you have a mold problem, get in touch with the experts at RestoPros! We offer services such as water damage restoration, mold testing, removal and remediation! Call us today at 855-587-3786 or schedule a service online!

My Home Has a Mold Problem! Now What?

Published on March 22, 2019

So, you’ve had a professional mold testing done in your house and your worst suspicion has been confirmed. The very thought of this issue can strike fear into the heart of even the toughest homeowners. However, you can no longer deny the fact and it’s time to take some action. So, say it with me: My home has a mold problem! Now that you have accepted the worst, the experts at RestoPros are here to help with some advice about what you can do from here.

Supplies for Treating the Mold

In serious mold cases, most experts would recommend having professional mold remediation. However, if your professional mold testing expert has verified you can clean it yourself, here are some supplies you will need:

Protective Gear

You should have a mask or respirator, eye protection, rubber gloves, a fan, and a dehumidifier. You do not want to risk inhaling the mold spores you will be cleaning.

Cleaning Chemicals

If the intense list of protective gear was not a clear indication, mold is not something you can clean with everyday cleaning supplies. On the contrary, you will need to procure non-ammonia detergent, chlorine bleach, and white vinegar to mix your cleaning solution.

Cleaning Tools

Make sure you have plenty of rags and more than one scrub brush (both of which should be disposed of after you finish treating the mold). You should also have a large pail and a plastic garbage bag.

Steps for DIY Mold Treatment

1. Dampen the Area:

This is an important first step to keep mold spores from releasing into the air. With a damp rag soaked in plain water, coat the affected area.

2. Remove as Much Mold as Possible:

With your scrub brush and detergent, remove as much of the mold as you can, and dispose of the brush.

3. Mix and Apply Your Bleach Solution:

In your large pail, mix together 1 ½ cups of chlorine bleach to 1 gallon of water. Use a new rag to generously coat the affected surface with this mixture. Once this is done, let it soak for 15 minutes.

4. Scrub the Solution into the Affected Area:

With a new scrubbing brush, scrub the area with the bleach solution thoroughly and rinse with clean water. Repeat this bleach step until all visible mold is gone.

5. Eliminate All Moisture from the Treated Area:

Use your fan and dehumidifier to dry the area thoroughly to prevent new mold growth.

6. Wash Your Clothes:

Unless you chose to wear work clothes that you don’t mind disposing of, wash the clothes you wore for the mold treatment immediately. Place them in a plastic bag to transport them to the washing machine. Add ¾ cup white vinegar to the water to kill the mold spores on your clothing.

My Home Has a Mold Problem! What Else Can I Do?

If you have followed the previous steps and removed the mold on your own, you have already saved money on professional mold removal. The best thing you can do for the long-term safety of your home is to enlist the help of mold remediation experts you can trust. Let the knowledgeable team at RestoPros take it from here. Call us at (855) 587-3786 or fill out a service request form online to conquer your mold problem today!

Mold vs. Mildew: Spotting the Difference

Published on March 7, 2019

Exposure to dampness or mold is the estimated cause of a quarter of all asthma cases in the United States. Even for non-asthmatic homeowners, living with a mold or mildew problem can pose serious health threats. Answering the mold vs. mildew question starts with learning what to look for. The experts at RestoPros are here to share our advice on how to spot the difference.

Mold vs. Mildew: Similarities

Environments

-Both mold and mildew are types of fungi that flourish in moist, humid conditions with scarce light.

-Both mold and mildew grow when spores or seeds find their way into environments that are conducive to colony growth.

Affected Hosts

-Neither mold nor mildew can grow on synthetic materials such as plastic and metal-based products.

Odors and Physical Symptoms

-Both mold and mildew produce a similar musty odor.

-Both mold and mildew can cause similar physical symptoms to humans who are exposed.

Mold vs. Mildew: Differences

Appearance

-Mildew can be downy or powdery. Downy mildew starts as yellow spots that become brighter and then turn brown in color. Powdery mildew is whitish in color and slowly turns yellowish brown and then black.

-Mold is black, yellow, or green with a fuzzy or slimy texture. Severe mold growth looks like moss and can cause rot in its effected host.

Growth Patterns

-Mildew is a type of mold that has flat growth patterns. Unlike mold, mildew remains on the surface of its host where is can be easily removed. Mildew is drawn to moisture and grows on damp surfaces like your kitchen, bathroom, and basement. You can find mildew growth in toilets, sinks, tubs, showers, and on bathroom walls.

-Mold is a fungus that grows in patches which penetrate beneath the surface of its host. Mold grows on living sources, including food, drywall, paper, and wood. Mold can often grow on your ceilings, window sills, and walls.

Effects on the Host

–Mildew can harm the food or plants upon which it grows, but usually does not cause any lasting damage to other surfaces such as tile floors or bathroom mirrors.

–Mold can damage entire structures because it penetrates beneath the surface of its host.

Effects on Exposed Humans

–Mildew can cause similar allergic reactions to those caused by mold, such as coughing, sneezing, headache, sore throat, and respiratory problems. However, mildew is much easier to eliminate because it remains on the surface of its host.

–Mold can pose a serious threat to your health. It can trigger sinus problems, sneezing, coughing, wheezing, sore throat, migraines, itching, rashes, fatigue, and even depression. Mold is difficult to remove because it penetrates below the surface of its host.

So, now you know some signs to look for when answering your mold vs. mildew question, but what should you do about your problem? Contact the experts at RestoPros for immediate mold testing and remediation today!

How to Identify Different Types of Mold

Published on February 28, 2019

Mold is the last thing you want to live with in your home, as It causes musty odors, damage to your house, and dangerous health problems. Are you are worried about mold in your home? Keep reading for some tips from the professionals at RestoPros on how to identify different types of mold.

How to Identify Different Types of Mold by Color and Physical Symptoms:

The two easiest ways to identify which type of mold is in your home is by color and correlating symptoms. Here are the color qualities and related symptoms for common types of household mold:

Yellow-green/Brown Mold:

Scientific Name: Aspergillus
Coloring: This mold is a yellow-green color on the surface with brown coloring underneath.
Where it Grows: in air conditioning systems and on starchy foods like potatoes and bread.
Potential Symptoms: allergic reactions, respiratory infections, and inflammation of the lungs.

Pink and Black Mold:

Scientific Name: Ureobasidium.
Coloring: pink and black in color
Where it Grows: in damp areas like window frames, bathroom rugs, or caulk.
Potential Symptoms: eye irritation or respiratory problems.

Black and Green Mold:

Scientific Name: Cladosporium
Coloring: This mold is black and green in color and has a pepper-like appearance.
Where it Grows: on surfaces like toilets, fiberglass ducts, fabrics, and wood.
Potential Symptoms: watery eyes, a sore throat, or respiratory problems.

Dark Green, Brown, or Black Mold:

Scientific Name: Chaetomium.
Coloring: This type of mold is dark green, brown, or black in color and produces a musty odor.
Where it Grows: in buildings that have suffered extensive water damage.
Potential Symptoms: This type of mold rarely causes health problems in humans who are exposed to it.

Blue or Green Mold:

Scientific Name: Penicillium
Coloring: blue or green, this type of mold can easily transfer from room to room
Where it Grows: on wallpaper and textiles like carpets, mattresses, or curtains.
Potential Symptoms: This mold causes allergic reactions, sinus infections, and lung inflammation.

Black Mold:

Scientific Name: Stachybotrys chartarum
Coloring: It is dark in color and produces a musty odor.
Toxic/black mold is one of most common molds associated with health problems; it produces mycotoxins.
Where it Grows: in extremely damp locations (inside air conditioning systems, near leaky pipes, and on porous surfaces like drywall.)
Potential Symptoms: Exposure to black mold can cause allergic reactions, sinus infections, asthma symptoms, fatigue, headaches, and even depression.

Green or Bright Green & White:

Scientific Name: Trichoderma
Coloring: green or bright green color with white mixed in
Where it Grows: on wallpaper, carpets, and other porous surfaces.
Trichoderma produces mycotoxins causing serious health problems.
Potential Symptoms: allergic reactions, sinus infections, asthma, fatigue, headaches and depression.

Although you now know what to look for, it is always a good idea to have your house professionally tested if you suspect you have a mold problem. If you are looking for a professional to perform mold testing, remediation, or removal in your home, contact the experts at RestoPros! Call 855-587-3786 to make an appointment today!

Uh-Oh, What’s That Smell? How to Tell If You Have Mold

Published on January 25, 2019

We all know the ins and outs of our homes like the backs of our hands. Or, at least we think we do. Unfortunately, when it comes to mold, you won’t always know right away that it’s there, plaguing you and your family. Because of the dangers mold poses, it’s crucial to address its presence right away. Identifying mold can sometimes be tricky, especially if you don’t know what to look for exactly. We want to equip you with the right tools so that you can protect your home and your family. Here’s how to tell if you have mold:

1. There’s an unpleasant smell.

A damp, musty smell is often an indication that mold is present. Due to the nature of mold, you won’t always see it right away, but you can smell it. While diffusing essential oils might help mask the odor, it won’t get rid of the problem. The unpleasant odor is caused by microbial VOC’s (volatile organic compounds), and the side effects of exposure include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, nausea and skin irritation.

Here’s the problem with just smelling mold: if you can’t see it, you don’t know where to start in the remediation process. In this case, we recommend hiring an expert to help you locate the source, as it could very well be in an area that’s not easily accessible, such as your crawlspace, ductwork, or attic.

2. There are small specs of a dirt-like substance.

It’s possible for mold to be visible but for you not to know it. This is because mold can appear in a variety of colors and sizes. It can even be as small as specs of dirt. And, if ignored, a small patch of mold can quickly become a serious issue.

Is It Dirt or Mold? You Might Have Mold If…

The area is damp and dark.
The substance doesn’t wipe away easily.
It has a velvety appearance.
There’s a foul odor accompanying it.

3. The walls have discoloration.

Mold thrives in moist areas. Pay special attention to areas in your home with higher moisture levels, like your bathrooms, kitchen, and basement. Look for splotches and discoloration at the top of the ceiling, down close to the floor, and along baseboards.

4. You have surface damage.

If your flooring, wall paper, or paint is peeling or curling, or if there are surface stains, it could be an indication that you have mold. Check to see if the area is wet or damp.

Mold VS Mildew

While mold and mildew are both fungi, mildew isn’t as dangerous. However, both should still be addressed immediately. This grayish-white, powdery substance lives on surfaces and can be found in the corners of showers, on shower curtains, and on bathroom tiles. Unlike mold, mildew is easier to eliminate. To clean mildew, combine 1 gallon of water with ¾ cup of bleach, or if you’d prefer not to use bleach, fill a spray bottle with distilled vinegar.

How to Treat Mold & Prevent Future Growth

How you go about treating mold depends on the type and extent of the growth. If treated in the beginning stages (limited to an area of 10-square-feet) you can often clean the area using household products such as bleach, ammonia, vinegar, or hydrogen peroxide. When the growth is extensive, we recommend calling a professional right away. At RestoPros, we use proven methods and industry-leading equipment to effectively remove mold from your home and prevent it from returning. Our comprehensive remediation process will restore your comfort, safety and peace of mind.

The professionals at RestoPros are the experts in mold removal and prevention. For high-quality service you can depend on, call (855) 587-3786 today! We proudly offer 24-Hour Emergency Service.

5 Myths About Mold in Your Home

Published on December 21, 2018

No one wants to see mold growing in their home. Mold is unsightly. It can damage your foundation, and it can wreak havoc on the health of your household. But for all the negative effects of mold, there are several exaggerated and even completely false beliefs that should be pointed out. The professionals at RestoPros, the most trusted mold remediation company in Dallas, have collected five of the most common myths about residential mold.

Read the facts below and educate yourself before attempting to clean or diagnose a mold outbreak in your home.

Myth 1. Black Mold Is Deadly

There are over 20,000 different species of “black mold,” which is technically not even a scientific term. Black is simply the color of certain strains – and one of the least common colors of fungal growth. Stachybotrys, which is considered to be the most toxic strain of mold, can be any color depending on the surroundings. In most cases this toxic mold is a greenish-black color, but attempting to identify it by the color is futile. Aside from testing the mold directly, the only sure test for the toxicity of a mold in your home is a direct allergic reaction.

Myth 2. Bleach Kills All Mold

Bleach is the go-to product many people use to clean a mold outbreak. While it works well enough to “clean” mold off of a non-porous surface, bleach can irritate the skin and the fumes are dangerous if inhaled. Bleach is also not an ideal cleaner for porous surfaces – and can exacerbate the situation by seeping into wood, plasterboard, wall paper and other materials. Hydrogen peroxide and white vinegar are both preferred mold cleaners for mold growth on both porous and non-porous surfaces.

Myth 3. Mold Will Make You Sick

This is partly true, but not all mold will make you sick. In most cases, the person is suffering from an allergic reaction to the mold. The “toxic mold” mentioned above, which is rare, can cause all sorts of respiratory problems, chronic fatigue, eye irritation and rashes among other symptoms. Toxic mold can make you sick, while most common mold outbreaks are more likely to trigger allergy symptoms. Mold allergies can include sneezing, itching, running nose and throat irritation; basic allergy symptoms generally associated with seasonal allergies.

Myth 4. A Small Amount of Mold Is Not A Problem

If you notice mold anywhere in your home, you need to clean it immediately. Even a small amount can do damage to the surface area and will continue to spread. Sometimes mold will grow in an area that was left damp (usually places in the kitchen or bathroom). But mold on the ceiling or a wall might indicate a separate problem that also needs to be dealt with. Roof and plumbing leaks are major causes of mold – and until they are fixed, the growth with only return if cleaned.

Myth 5. Mold Remediation Is a DIY Project

If you are experiencing a serous mold outbreak, do not attempt to clean and eradicate the growth on your own. Mold that is the result of serious flooding or a major leak needs the attention of a professional remediation company. Mold can be an insidious intruder. It can ruin homes and greatly compromise the health and happiness of a household. Never attempt a DIY fix when dealing with a mold infestation. Trained experts can offer a full assessment (including diagnosing the root of the problem) and will have the latest equipment to deal with the growth. Experienced mold remediation technicians can also help file insurance claims to help cover the cost of the damages.

Now that you have a clearer understanding of these common “mold myths,” you can be better prepared to deal with an infestation. While the mere sight of mold in your home should not be cause for alarm, it is important that it is dealt with right away. If you discover widespread growth, do not hesitate to call the professionals at RestoPros. We can send someone out to assess the problem and offer solutions for all aspects of the problem. Call us at 855-587-3786 to schedule an appointment today!

3 Different Mold Colors and What They Might Mean

Published on September 21, 2018

It’s never a good feeling to see mold, regardless of where you come across it in your home. Whether it’s in the bathroom, pantry, garage or outdoors, spotting this fungus has a nasty habit of putting a damper in anyone’s day. And while it’s probably a good idea to have any mold you encounter removed as soon as possible, not all molds are the same.

Some molds are inherently more dangerous and harmful than others, but they’re all bad. Given the overwhelming numbers of different mold types, determining how concerned you should be about the one in your home can be tough.

Well, worry no longer! The professionals at RestoPros are familiar with the different types of molds you may stumble across, and we’ll help you figure out what it might be. We’ve put together a list of a few common colors of mold you might see at home.

There are 3 different mold colors:

1. Green Mold

There are two sides to this. One is that you’re probably going to come across green mold more than anything, so it’s probably not an exceedingly rare species. On the other hand, since it’s so common, determining which family a green mold belongs to is nearly impossible without a specialist.

To be on the safe side, go ahead and get rid of anything that has this mold on it just in case. While we can’t pinpoint the exact type without looking at it, mold of any kind isn’t welcome in your home and should be disposed of immediately.

2. Blue/Green/White

A mold that falls under one of these colors, especially one that you find in a place with food – such as a pantry – likely comes from the Penicillium genus. It’s fairly common as well, and it’s capable of causing some harsh respiratory system problems.

Again, any time you spot a mold that looks like one of these colors, do your best to remove it and call a professional!

3. Black

As a whole, black mold tends to get stuck with a bad reputation. That’s not to imply that black mold is in any way good, because it’s not. But more often than not, people will tell you that black mold is by far the worst color you could end up spotting, and that isn’t entirely the case.

Black mold that you notice outdoors on plants is probably either Alternaria or Cladosporium, and both need to be taken care of as soon as you can. Otherwise, it might be Aspergillus¸ which is a common mold we actually breathe in pretty often without knowing.

Cladosporium spores have been known to cause minor infections in places such as your eyes, sinuses and skin, but they’ve also been known to lead to significantly more serious complications like fungal meningitis in the brain.
Alternaria is also found indoors in darker areas, as well as in typical dust you see everywhere in your home. Although not as serious as Cladosporium, it’s still problematic.

All mold is annoying, and no matter how common or non-threatening it might look, it has the potential to cause a lot of damage. It needs to be properly removed as quickly as possible, especially if you have small children in your home or people who are susceptible to health problems.

That’s where RestoPros comes in. Our team is thoroughly qualified to handle all your mold-removal needs, and we’ll get it done safely and securely. Whether you’re in need of an emergency cleanup or just want to test your home for mold infestations, we’ve got you covered.

For the most reliable service in the Dallas area, give us a call at 855-587-3786!

3 Ways to Test for Mold in Your Home

Published on June 14, 2018

Not all stains are made equal. While some are just spilled food or water, others can actually be splotches of mold that have infested your home. Additionally, musky, pungent smells in your home can also be a sign of mold. While bad smells and unexplainable stains are both common signs of a mold problem, they’re not always indicative of an infestation. If you’ve noticed either in your home, it’s best to test for mold.

RestoPros recommends every Dallas/Ft. Worth homeowner llearnsabout mold testing. We have provided some mold testing methods below to help guide you in discovering and treating a mold problem.

Note: Do not perform any mold testing without the proper mold cleaning equipment. Wear the appropriate goggles, face mask, gloves, and long-sleeved clothes before proceeding.

1. Test Your Home’s Humidity Using a Hygrometer

Is your home a suitable habitat for mold growth? Mold flourishes in warm, dark, and humid environments. And if your home falls under these conditions, the stain or smell could have a higher chance of being from mold. Humidity arguably plays the biggest role in mold growth, so you’ll want to test your home’s humidity using a hygrometer.

Hygrometers can be found at almost any department store and are used to measure humidity levels in a given area. Adequate humidity levels for homes are between 40-60%, with anything higher possibly making your home more suitable for mold growth.

2. Test the Fragility of Stained Surfaces

Mold can lead to rot, especially in porous surfaces such as drywall. You’ll want to test the fragility of stains using a tool such as a ruler or screwdriver. If the surface of a stain feels crumbly or squishy, this could mean mold is causing rot. Be careful not to puncture the surface using a tool.

3. Utilize a Mold Testing Kit

Mold testing kits are available to purchase at almost any home improvement store and are used to detect mold and its associated contaminants. Depending on the type of mold kit, it can measure for mold spores in the air in addition to possible mold stains. Be aware that some mold testing kits require mailing samples to a lab, which could take some time to process and return the results.

What if You’ve Discovered Mold?

If a test has indicated the possibility of mold, you’ll want to contact RestoPros for quality mold remediation services that help restore your home to a healthy condition. Our mold-removal experts utilize only the highest-quality products for eradicating mold, such as Bad Axe Particulate Conqueror.

Bad Axe Particulate Conqueror is a high-tech cleaning aid used in our mold remediation process. This product attacks airborne contaminants (such as mold spores) directly, immobilizing and increasing mass for easier clean-up. This reduces the possibility of further mold growth after remediation, as well as less contaminants in the air.

Throughout the RestoPros mold remediation process, we utilize Bad Axe Particulate Conqueror for both contamination control and more thorough mold elimination. We utilize this product to contain particles before, during, and after remediation, helping to ensure your home is restored to a healthy condition.

If you have tested and found mold in your Dallas/Ft. Worth home, contact RestoPros at 855-587-3786 for “Bad Axe” mold remediation services!

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