Professional Mold Inspections & Environmental Testing in Sarasota, FL

To better understand the risks and hazards of mold, you must have a better understanding of what exactly is mold and how you can recognize it. Mold is a type of fungus that grows from spores and is essential for the breakdown of dead plant and animal matter. Usually, these spores are inactive, but they develop when the humidity exceeds 70 percent or when the temperature goes above 65 degrees. Mold can be found everywhere in our environment, both indoors and outdoors. Usually, mold is found in damp areas, such as the basement or bathroom, as well as in the outdoor environment in the grass, leaf piles, hay, and mulch. Mold is encountered daily and by everyone. It causes food to spoil, wood to rot, paper to smell musty, etc. That fuzzy black growth on wet window sills is mold. Paper or fabrics stored in a damp place get a musty smell.

To prevent mold from growing, you will need to keep humidity levels below 40-45 percent. Start with measuring air moisture using a humidity meter (hygrometer). To maintain adequate moisture levels, allow good air circulation, and use dehumidifiers and your AC system.

Active mold growth is slimy or fuzzy and is usually green, black, orange, or purple. Inactive mold is dry and powdery and is usually white. In its early stages, mold may look like a web; while in full bloom, it looks bushy. Another indicator of mold presence is an odor. Mold has a musty, earthy smell that can indicate its presence even if unseen.

Lock and secure your property when not occupied to prevent looting. Keep in mind alarms may malfunction if the electricity or telephone service has been interrupted.

After being wet, most insulation is ineffective. However, it is hard to dry out insulation; therefore, it will hold moisture for a while, creating high moisture conditions. It is strongly recommended to find and fix the leak source and replace all wet insulation.