|
|
Mold Contamination
When should I use the 10 Minute Mold Test kit?
My test came back positive. What now?
Prevention
The 10 Minute Mold Test kit is intended as a preliminary screen for potential mold and/or microbial growth on common interior finishes of residential and commercial structures such as drywall. You should use the 10 Minute Mold Test when you see visible discoloration or staining that you suspect is mold growth. Testing visibly clean surfaces will almost always give you a negative result.
The colorimetric reaction used for this test is based on the presence of specific protein and carbohydrate substances. As such, certain organic substrates such as untreated wood, excessive house dust, food, etc. could yield a false positive result. In addition, this test will not distinguish between different types of mold or other microbial growth.
As with all screening tests, the 10 Minute Mold Test is only one tool. If you see mold growing, or organic material in your home (wallboard, clothing, furniture, etc) was wet for more than 24-48 hours, it is advisable to call a mold inspector. As always, if you are experiencing health symptoms and suspect mold as a cause, see a physician.
If your test result is positive, and you suspect that you have
mold growing indoors, then hiring a qualified professional to
further inspect your home is a good idea. The EPA recommends, If you believe that you may have a hidden mold problem, consider hiring a professional. (Brief Guide to Mold, p.14, EPA)
A professional will likely examine your home, ask you questions, and take more samples in order to determine what is causing the high number of mold spores. If the professional determines that there really is a problem with indoor mold growth he may recommend a course of action to solve the problem. He may also recommend hiring a professional remediator,
a person who cleans up mold problems and ensures that your home
is restored as best as possible to its original condition.
Back to Top
The U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region 10 suggests four basic steps to prevent mold growth. (FEMA 7)
- Stop the water
- Keep it clean
- Keep it dry
- Disinfect it
While following these steps is not a guarantee against mold growth, it will help control it. More detailed information about prevention can be found in the FEMA Region 10 booklet entitled Dealing with Mold & Mildew in Your Flood Damaged Home.
Additional suggestions quoted directly from the EPA booklet, The inside Story: a Guide to Indoor Air Quality consist of:
- Install and use fans that give vent to the outdoors in kitchens and bathrooms
- Vent clothes dryers to outdoors
- Clean cool mist and ultrasonic humidifiers in accordance with manufacturer instructions and refill with clean water daily.
- Empty water trays in air conditioners, dehumidifiers, and refrigerators frequently.
- Clean and dry or remove water-damaged carpets.
- Use basements as living areas only if they are leak-proof and have adequate ventilation. Use dehumidifiers, if necessary, to maintain humidity between 30-50%.
Back to Top
|
|
|
