Mold air testing

Mold is comprised of microscopic fungi that can grow on almost any type of surface. Mold often appears as a stain or a mark and may have a moldy or damp earth smell.

In order to grow, mold requires moisture and a suitable medium—usually cellulose-based materials (cardboard, gypsum, wood) as the fungi feed on the organic compounds contained in these materials. Mold can also grow on plastic, metal or other materials such as concrete in the right environment (the presence of dust and high humidity are often enough). Mold may even be found on plants and food.

To reproduce, mold releases tiny spores into the air (400 to 2,000 times smaller than a hair) that can enter mucous membranes (mouth, lungs, eyes, etc.) and cause health problems.

It consists of a visual inspection performed by a chemist or a microbiologist (university-level science training that enhances the report’s credibility) to look for visible fungal growths or excessive humidity. Humidity levels of indoor air and certain building materials are measured using a hygrometer, an electronic tool that is non-intrusive (as it does not damage materials).

In addition, at least two air tests will be performed: one outside (weather permitting) to serve as a reference (baseline) value to compare with the results of the air test(s) taken inside the building (at least one test per floor). The number of spores in the building should ideally be lower than, but at most equal to the number of spores outside.

Finally, at least two surface tests (also called tape tests or swabs) will be done. This type of test is particularly useful since certain types of molds sometimes emit very few spores, making it difficult to interpret the results using air tests.

It is important to note that an air test is only valid for one floor (sometimes less than one floor). The expert may recommend an additional air or surface test, which will represent an additional cost.

According to Health Canada, excessive humidity and mold may aggravate the following conditions:

• Eye, nose and throat irritation;
• Coughing and phlegm;
• Wheezing and shortness of breath;
• Asthma symptoms;
• Allergic reactions.

Reactions to mold depend on the degree of exposure and people’s general health. Certain people are more vulnerable, such as children, senior citizens and people who have a weakened immune system or other health issues such as asthma, acute allergies or other respiratory illnesses.

• As specified by Health Canada, the recommended humidity level for your home is around 50% in summer and 30% in winter; using a dehumidifier may be necessary.
• Spraying a water/bleach solution is not the ideal solution for cleaning mold.
• Cleaning visible mold off a wall will not solve the problem.
• A mold test is strongly recommended after performing decontamination or renovation work involving materials affected by mold.
• Always wear a half-mask respirator with P100 (HEPA) filters when handling material that has been affected by mold.

It consists of a visual inspection performed by a chemist or a microbiologist (university-level science training that enhances the report’s credibility) to look for visible fungal growths or excessive humidity. Humidity levels of indoor air and certain building materials are measured using a hygrometer, an electronic tool that is non-intrusive (as it does not damage materials).

In addition, at least two air tests will be performed: one outside (weather permitting) to serve as a reference (baseline) value to compare with the results of the air test(s) taken inside the building (at least one test per floor). The number of spores in the building should ideally be lower than, but at most equal to the number of spores outside.

Finally, at least two surface tests (also called tape tests or swabs) will be done. This type of test is particularly useful since certain types of molds sometimes emit very few spores, making it difficult to interpret the results using air tests.

It is important to note that an air test is only valid for one floor (sometimes less than one floor). The expert may recommend an additional air or surface test, which will represent an additional cost.

No. Our expert will contact you to schedule the appointment.

Approximately 2 hours.

According to Health Canada, excessive humidity and mold may aggravate the following conditions:

• Eye, nose and throat irritation;
• Coughing and phlegm;
• Wheezing and shortness of breath;
• Asthma symptoms;
• Allergic reactions.

Reactions to mold depend on the degree of exposure and people’s general health. Certain people are more vulnerable, such as children, senior citizens and people who have a weakened immune system or other health issues such as asthma, acute allergies or other respiratory illnesses.

We do not perform this type of work. However, we can refer you to contractors if necessary.