Karl Environmental Offers the Following Mold Services:
- Mold Sampling (Mold Testing) – This determines whether there is a mold presence and what type of molds are growing.
- Mold Inspections – We locate the source of the mold and where it has spread.
- Mold Remediation – This includes both regular maintenance against small batches of mold and large-scale removal that should be done by professionals to reduce the spread and harm to people.
- Infrared (IR) Camera Investigations – Some types of mold can be discovered via an IR camera.
- Moisture Inspections – Mold almost always forms in the presence of moisture, so locating places of moisture in a building can lead to discovering or preventing mold.
When Does Mold Grow?
Mold begins to grow when there is enough moisture and food present. Mold will eat organic materials such as paper, wood, and even dust, all of which are found everywhere in our indoor environments. With the addition of moisture, whether from a leak or high humidity in the air, mold will begin to colonize. Once mold has begun to colonize, a visual mold inspection or mold sampling can help determine the type and amount of mold present.
Where Can Mold Grow?
Mold is often found during mold inspections and through mold sampling in indoor locations where there is poor ventilation and a regular source of moisture. For example, bathrooms often exhibit some level of mold growth. Bathrooms often have high levels of moisture present from their many water sources and frequent use increasing the room’s humidity. Mold growth is commonly found in attics where roof leaks have occurred or where bathroom fans are improperly ventilated into the attic space. Additionally, mold is found in basements. Relative humidity can be high, vapor intrusion can occur, and there could be poor foundation drainage.
Mold is also regularly identified:
- Under sinks
- In closets
- Around windows
- In utility closets/mechanical rooms
- Under carpets
How Does Mold Sampling Work?
A thorough mold investigation will involve a visual inspection for mold growth by an experienced mold inspector. Additionally, mold sampling or mold testing can help in identifying the source of mold, as well as the quantity and type of mold present. Mold sampling is conducted using special filter and an indoor air quality pump. The spores are trapped on a filter and can be identified at an accredited laboratory. Mold samples can also be collected using a swab or a slide, and sent to the laboratory for analysis. The use of a moisture meter and/or a thermal imaging camera can help find the source of moisture or water intrusion. Karl Environmental employs experienced mold investigators proficient at mold sampling and mold testing, as well as performing visual mold inspections.
Karl Environmental not only performs these inspections locally in the Berks County and Reading, PA area, but also in all of Eastern Pennsylvania including the Philadelphia region and all of New Jersey.
When Should Mold Be Remediated?
Small areas of mold, such as that often found on caulking around bathtubs or around windows, can often be taken care of with a regular maintenance and cleaning schedule. Larger areas of mold should be cleaned by an experienced mold remediation firm like Karl Environmental. Professional cleaning limits the spread of mold spores throughout uncontaminated areas and avoids extended respiratory and skin contact.
For More Information:
Karl Environmental Group is available to answer questions at any time. Contact us at your convenience for more information or to schedule a mold inspections, sampling, or remediation in Lancaster, Philadelphia, or Reading. Our quotations are always free!
Visit the EPA’s Mold website for more information on mold and your home.
The CDC provides more information on mold and dampness in buildings.
If you are looking for a mold inspection course, we offer a class each month of the year!