Black Mold Inspection & Removal from NIET
When should you contact a mold inspector? Most home- and business owners wait until they see a growth site before they schedule an inspection. Unfortunately, this can put your family or customers at risk of respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular problems and other health complications.
This is especially true in the case of toxic black mold (Stachybotrys). Black mold is one of the world’s most dangerous mold strains. It releases mycotoxins, which can enter the body through inhalation or physical contact.
There are three common signs that indicate black mold growth:
- The mold is visible.
- Building occupants suffer persistent and unexplained allergy symptoms.
- You smell an abnormal, musty odor that resembles old gym socks.
If you notice any of these signs – especially if your building has suffered recent water damage – contact National Indoor Environmental Testing. Our technicians will use fiber optics and moisture meters to locate all mold sites. We can remove the outbreak, identify the root cause of the problem and take steps to prevent future mold growth. Call 855-349-2356 to schedule a mold inspection.
Where Does Black Mold Grow?
In the outdoors, black mold tends to grow on plant matter. Its biological composition allows it to thrive on construction materials, which is why it can be such a nuisance in businesses and homes.
Black mold needs at least seven days to colonize, which is longer than most mold strains. It tends to grow in undisturbed places such as basements, behind walls and on rooftops.
Like most mold strains, Stachybotrys requires a moist, warm environment to grow. It does not need an excessive amount of water; all it takes is a high humidity level to set the foundation for an outbreak.
Because black mold tends to grow in out-of-the-way places, many property owners do not suspect a mold outbreak until several weeks or even months after the original colonization. As a result, building occupants – which could be your customers or family – are exposed to harmful mycotoxins, which can circulate via the air ducts or HVAC system.
Black Mold Can Cause Serious, Life-Threatening Health Problems
Black mold contains mycotoxins, which are so deadly that they have been used in biological warfare. Temporary exposure to mycotoxins can cause symptoms that resemble the flu or allergies, such as red eyes, sneezing and coughing. However, these symptoms will worsen over time.
Prolonged exposure to mycotoxins can lead to coma or even death. The elderly and young children are particularly vulnerable. Mycotoxins can cause birth defects in pregnant women. Symptoms of mycotoxin poisoning include:
- Fatigue;
- Headaches;
- Joint pain;
- Fever;
- Hair loss;
- Chest pain;
- And diarrhea.
This is not a complete list of symptoms. Mycotoxins can affect the reproductive, respiratory, circulatory and neurological systems.
If you notice or suspect mold growth, do not look for active sites. Mycotoxins are most lethal when inhaled, so standing next to an outbreak can cause serious health complications.
Mold Inspection & Removal Is NOT a DIY Job
Many property owners try to save money by removing mold without professional help. Although this may be safe for certain strains, black mold removal is never a do-it-yourself project.
Disturbing the mold site can allow spores to release into the air. They can land in other areas of the building and start new outbreaks.
Identifying all growth sites requires industry-standard equipment such as moisture meters and fiber optics. The mold remediation process may require dehumidification. If you suspect a mold outbreak, get everyone out of the building, and contact a mold removal expert as soon as possible.
The NIET team will arrive promptly and conduct a thorough mold inspection. In addition to removing the mold, we will take steps to prevent future outbreaks by identifying and fixing the root cause of the problem.
Contact NIET for a Professional Black Mold Inspection
You should never underestimate the destructive power of black mold. The best way to minimize the property damage and avoid long-term health complications is to schedule a black mold test immediately.
A technician from National Indoor Environmental Testing will evaluate the outbreak and create a customized remediation plan for your property. Do not trust an inexperienced contractor with black mold removal. Call the pros from NIET at 855-349-2356 to schedule an inspection.
