Initially, a mold inspection is visual. We look closely at areas
of a home where mold may be prone to grow such as in basements,
attics, crawl spaces, bathrooms, kitchens, or areas where known
water infiltration has occurred. We look in utility rooms, under
accessible stair wells, and in some areas you wouldn't
consider.
We use special source lighting so we can see what surfaces look
like in full detail. We also look at certain elements of suspect
HVAC systems to identify if mold may be within ductwork or fan/coil
housing units. We utilize tools such as moisture meters,
hygrometers (relative humidity), fiber optic scopes (to look within
wall cavities), and an Infra-Red camera which can detect moisture
in walls and in ceiling systems.
Surface and Air Sampling Practices
RTS Environmental Services only utilizes a third-party, nationally recognized, and accredited
laboratory. A surface sample taken by a swab, tape slide, or by bulk
sampling can be microscopically analyzed (called microanalysis) to
determine the mold type.
Air tests are performed by collecting a known volume of airborne
particulate through a special cartridge which contains a
pre-treated slide. The air is pumped at a known rate which passes
over this slide depositing mold spores resident in the rooms being
tested. Samples are taken inside the subject areas and outside as
well in order to gain a reference to compare types of molds
(Qualitative) and concentration (Quantitative) mold levels. The
indoor and outdoor results are compared to indicate if there is an
abnormal difference between indoor vs. outdoor.
Our Mold/Moisture Inspection is also an Education in Prevention
for the Client
Our inspectors will guide you through your home and suggest
methods for you to limit the spread of moisture or mold in areas
commonly affected. These methods are often very simple and cost
effective, saving you time and money.
Infra-Red Thermal Technology
Thermal Imaging is performed using an infrared camera. This
camera is designed to detect small changes in temperature relative
to the spectrum of light in the range of infrared energy. This
technology helps discover building problems otherwise not visible
with the human eye.
