Black Mold Removal & Testing in Santa Rosa, CA
Black mold testing is not a project that you can put off until tomorrow. If left unaddressed, the mycotoxins within black mold (Stachybotrys) can cause serious health complications.
Even if you cannot see the mold, mycotoxins can enter the body by breathing. Spores can release into the air and travel throughout a home or business via the air ducts. The elderly and infants are particularly susceptible to mycotoxin poisoning, and prolonged exposure can affect the neurological, cardiovascular, respiratory and reproductive systems of healthy adults.
Black mold removal in Santa Rosa is not a do-it-yourself task. The mycotoxins can absorb through your skin, and just standing near an outbreak can expose you to airborne spores.
Removing a growth site requires specific tools and techniques to ensure the outbreak does not return. There may also be several mold sites within one building.
At National Indoor Environmental Testing, our technicians will use moisture meters and fiber optics to locate every mold outbreak on your property. We will remove the growth, dehumidify the area and take steps to prevent future outbreaks. Schedule a black mold inspection in Santa Rosa today by calling 855-349-2356.
Common Causes of Black Mold Growth
Although every strain of mold is different, most species – including black mold – thrive in warm, moist environments. However, black mold is unique in that it requires at least one week of undisturbed moisture to colonize.
If you recently suffered water damage on your property, then black mold growth is a very real possibility. Even if you removed the water, the excess moisture may be enough to set the foundation for black mold growth.
In nature, black mold grows on plant matter, but its biological properties allow it to thrive on construction materials. In a home or business, black mold can grow in basements and on top of roofs. Outbreaks can also happen behind walls due to a leaky pipe.
It does not take a substantial amount of water to cause mold growth. In fact, high humidity is enough to allow the outbreak to colonize.
Testing for Mold in House
Mold is often difficult to notice. This is especially true regarding black mold. Because it requires an undisturbed area, black mold often grows in areas that are hard to see. Unfortunately, occupants of your home or business may be exposed to deadly mycotoxins for several weeks before you suspect a black mold outbreak.
The easiest way to identify black mold is to see the growth site. This is often possible if the building suffered significant water damage. But what if the mold is behind a wall?
Mold emanates a musty odor. Many people mistake this as a “typical basement smell,” but this is a cause of concern. If you notice a musty smell in the basement or attic, schedule a black mold test immediately.
Some property owners do not suspect mold until they notice the adverse health effects. If you or a family member is having unseasonal and persistent allergy symptoms, including itchy eyes, red eyes or a swollen throat, schedule a mold inspection.
Health Issues Associated with Black Mold
Most types of mold are harmful to human health, but black mold is particularly dangerous. The mycotoxins can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled, and they can wreak havoc on several systems within the body.
Prolonged exposure can lead to coma and even death. It can also cause:
- Nausea;
- Vomiting;
- Diarrhea;
- Heart complications;
- Shortness of breath;
- Coughing;
- Dizziness;
- And cognitive disorders.
Hire a Professional Mold Remediation Company
Every property owner is on a tight budget, but black mold removal is not a DIY project. Exposure to mycotoxins can cause a long list of medical conditions, and you may aggravate the growth site and allow the spores to spread.
If you notice mold growth, stay away from the outbreak. Get everyone out of the building, and schedule a black mold test as soon as possible.
It is important to remember that not every mold inspection company provides the same level of service. Some fly-by-night businesses offer budget-friendly prices, but they do not have the equipment to remove all mold sites and prevent future outbreaks.
The technicians at National Indoor Environmental Testing will respond quickly and inspect your property thoroughly. We use industry-standard equipment to do the job right the first time.
Mold Inspection and Remediation in Santa Rosa, California
If you need mold removal in Santa Rosa, contact NIET. Call us today at 855-349-2356 to schedule an inspection.
Request a Mold Inspection
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