What’s the Difference between Mold Inspection and Mold Testing

• By bk-digilatics
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The discoloration you often see on your walls is not the paint fading out. It is something big and more problematic: mold. FYI, up to 50% of homes across the USA have mold issues. There is quite a fair chance that your home might also be exposed to it. However you can always handle the issue thoroughly, but one thing that might confuse you is whether you should schedule a mold inspection or a mold test to handle the issue. To be fair, it is confusing. However, it becomes quite easy to decide once you have the proper insights into mold inspection and testing. In this blog, we will help you with precisely that. We will discuss the difference between mold testing and inspections, letting you know which one is better under what circumstances.

What Is a Mold Inspection?

Mold inspection is a detailed assessment of your property to detect the presence of mold. The process is conducted by a professional who visually inspects the areas that are prone to mold, such as:

  • Basements
  • Attics
  • Bathrooms
  • Areas with plumbing leaks or high humidity

The home inspector also uses specialized tools like infrared cameras and moisture meters to identify hidden mold and moisture sources. Sometimes, the inspector also collects air and surface samples that are later sent for laboratory analysis to determine the concentration and type of mold spores. So, we can say that mold inspection helps identify existing mold problems and different risk areas with a higher probability of mold infestation, letting you promptly address the issues.

How Long Does It Take?

The mold inspection can take 1 to 2 hours for an average-sized home. However, the exact time of the mold inspection can vary depending on different factors, such as:

  • Size of the property
  • The extent of the inspection needed
  • The complexity of the mold issues present

How Much Does It Cost?

A mold inspection can cost around $300 to $500 for a typical residential property. However, owning a larger home or a commercial property can cost anywhere between $600 and $1000 because these inspections require advanced tools and will take longer.

What Is Mold Testing?

Mold testing is another distinct process that doesn’t involve assessing the mold but collecting samples from the property. The purpose of mold testing is similar to that of mold inspections: looking for the presence of mold. But this time, the type of mold is also analyzed. The mold testing process usually involves taking air samples, surface swabs, or bulk samples from areas suspected of mold growth or having a moisture problem. These samples are then sent to a laboratory for analysis, where specialists identify the specific types of mold and their concentrations.

It’s better to get a mold test done by a professional, but you can also DIY these tests with a testing kit available at a home improvement store. These tests can provide you with valuable information about the following:

  • The extent of mold
  • Potential health risks
  • Whether the mold is actively growing

It complements a mold inspection by confirming suspicions and guiding the remediation process. Accurate mold testing helps you understand the severity of the mold issue, enabling you to take appropriate actions to ensure a safe and healthy living or working environment.

How Long Does It Take?

Mold testing takes longer than mold inspection. The testing process, from sample collection to receiving the final report, can take about 3 to 7 days. However, it can vary depending on the scope of the testing and the methods used.

How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of mold testing depends on various factors, including the size of the property, the number of samples required, the type of testing, and the location. Below is a general breakdown of mold testing costs.

Basic Mold Testing

If you’re choosing air sampling for mold testing, the air samples are collected from different areas of the property and analyzed in a lab. So, the cost typically ranges from $200 to $400. Conversely, surface sampling, in which swabs or tape lifts are used to collect mold from surfaces, can cost between $150 and $300 for basic sampling.

Comprehensive Mold Testing

If multiple air and surface samples are needed during mold testing, the cost can increase, with each additional sample typically costing between $50 and $100. In cases where bulk sampling is required, such as collecting materials like drywall or insulation for testing, the cost may be higher, ranging from $300 to $600 or more.

Professional Fees

If you are hiring a certified mold inspector, you may be charged additional fees for their expertise and time, typically ranging from $100 to $300.

When Should You Get A Mold Testing and Inspection?

You should get a mold inspection and testing if you notice any signs or conditions that might indicate mold growth in your home. Here are some of the situations where you may schedule a mold testing and inspection:

  • Visible Mold: When you see mold growth anywhere in your home. It could be on walls, ceilings, floors, or other surfaces.
  • Musty Odor: When you detect a persistent musty or moldy smell indoors. Even if you don’t see the mold, the odor could be its sign behind walls, under flooring, or in hidden areas.
  • Water Damage: If your home has undergone water damage, whether from floods, leaks, burst pipes, or roof leaks, note that mold growth can start after 24-48 hours of water exposure.
  • Real Estate Transactions: If you’re buying a property, you must get a mold inspection before finalizing the deal. Similarly, if you’re selling a property, you must get a mold inspection before listing it on the market.

Conclusion

Even though mold inspections and testing are closely related, they serve distinct and complementary roles in identifying and addressing mold issues in a property. Mold inspection is a visual assessment that locates the areas of mold growth and identifies conditions that can lead to mold development. Overall, it provides an overview of potential mold problems and their sources.

On the other hand, mold testing involves collecting and analyzing samples to determine the specific types and concentrations of mold spores present. This scientific analysis offers detailed information critical for understanding the extent of the mold issue and recommending effective remediation strategies. Mold testing and inspection provide a comprehensive approach to detect, analyze, and mitigate mold, ensuring a safe and healthy indoor environment.

Protect your home with The BrickKicker’s expert mold testing services! Our team provides comprehensive mold testing to ensure your property is safe and healthy. We accurately identify and quantify mold spores using advanced analytical methods, offering detailed insights into potential mold issues. Don’t let mold jeopardize your home’s integrity or your family’s health. Contact us now to book your appointment and take the first step towards a mold-free home!