Mold Inspection PA, Mold Testing PA,
Mold Remediation PA, Mold Removal PA,
Since 1995

As the premiere mold inspection, mold testing, mold remediation and mold removal experts in the Eastern Pennsylvania area, Certified Black Mold Removal is affordable and we offer practical solutions to your mold problems. We are MICRO certified specialists, fully insured and A+ members of the Better Business Bureau. Certified Black Mold Removal has been helping the residents of Bucks County PA, Chester County PA, Delaware County PA, Montgomery County PA and Philadelphia County PA with their mold inspection, mold testing and mold remediation needs since 1995.

Identifying Mold

So you think you have mold. You see black fuzzy stuff growing on your basement wall and you're thinking, this can not be good.

When faced with this situation, don't panic. There are a few things you can do before calling in a mold inspector. First, do you detect an odor? Certain molds can produce powerful Mycotoxins which can throw off an odor. So if sense a musty or earthy smell, it is a good possibility you're smelling mold.

Next, carefully look at the discoloration. Is it black, green or white? These are the most common colors associated with mold.

Check the physical appearance of the surface in question. Does it appear fuzzy, cottony or leathery? If so, there's a good chance you are looking at mold.

Never store important documents in cardboard boxes in your basement

Is the area you're looking at damp or is there a humidifier close by? Has there been previous water damage in the area? If so, it is probably time to call in a professional mold inspector.

Is the suspect area in a bathroom? Do you always run the bathroom exhaust vent after showering? If not, the steam from showering has likely caused mold to begin growing.

Are there cardboard boxes, old books or wood in the immediate area? Then you've provided a terrific food source for mold to grow.

Identifying mold is no easy task. It certainly helps to familiarize yourself with the places mold likes to grow such as attics, basements, garages and bathrooms. However, you also need an understanding of what mold needs to grow and flourish. Namely a food source and dark damp conditions. This is why it is always best to call in a professional mold inspector whenever you suspect mold. Always remember that the sooner mold contamination is detected, the less damage it will cause to your home and the less it will cost to remove.

References:
IICRC S520 Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Mold Remediation

Common Causes of Mold

Mold is a fungus that thrives on a moist climate that contains a food source. These food sources can include wood, sheetrock, wallpaper glue and more. Below is a list of the common causes of mold growth:

1. High humidity levels in a building structure is a common cause of mold growth.
2. Leaky plumbing lines hidden behind walls
3. Clogged gutters or downspouts
4. Dishwasher leaks
5. Roof Leaks
6. Water Heater Leaks
7. Air Conditioner Condensation
8. Humidifiers
9. Window Leaks
10. Cracks in the foundation
11. Toilets, sinks or faucets with slow leaks
12. Shower pans due to poor installation or age
13. Improper water damage dry downs
14. Poor bathroom ventilation
15. Standing water in a basement or crawl space
16. Lack of a vapor barrier in a crawl space
17. Improper ventilation inside of an attic space
18. No dehumidifier run in the basement

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