Mold Testing: 3 Reasons Why a Certified Hygienist Is the Best Option

6/16/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth on ceiling panels.

Mold Testing

Mold is a highly ubiquitous invader commonly found in moist spots in buildings. It has the ability to grow on surfaces made from many materials, including dust, carpet, insulation, drywall, tile, paint and more. Its presence in homes may result in mold damage as the microbe eats away at materials. If the fungus's spread is visible, testing is generally unnecessary and individuals can skip to the step of contacting a professional cleanup and restoration service in Wright County, MN, for mold cleaning. However, if it cannot be seen, homeowners who suspect mold has invaded their property because of odor or another reason need to contact a certified environmental hygienist to perform testing. Consulting a professional is the best choice for several reasons.

1. Hygienists Are Trained
They are certified by the American Board of Industrial Hygiene only after undergoing thorough credentialing. They have the experience and training needed to properly identify mold growth.

2. Hygienists Provide More Than a Lab Test
They also offer much more than a DIY kit, including:

A visual inspection that narrows down potential areas where the fungus may be (and mold cleaning is needed) and involves the use of equipment (borescopes, thermographic readings, moisture meters and more)
Professionally performed tests that follow specific scientific procedures
Recommendations for mold remediation based on the visual inspection, tests and experience

3. Hygienists Are More Reliable Than Home Kits
There are many at-home mold testing kits on the market. The problem with the vast majority (if not all) of them is that they aren't that useful. For one thing, they do not offer a visual inspection, which is more important than a person might think and can only be performed by someone (i.e. a certified hygienist) who knows what to look for. For another, they test for the presence of mold, which is pointless since it is in every home. They also often fail to produce quantitative and accurate results.
The Environmental Protection Agency specifically recommends that mold testing be left to certified hygienists. They are more capable of performing the job correctly and identifying the areas where mold cleaning is needed.

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