Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Calibrating a sampling pump is a simple thing but one of the most important steps in mold sampling. You must make sure you have proper airflow for testing which means using a spore trap to calibrate the pump, if you don’t the air flow rate will be different when you attach the spore trap. Make sure you also keep track of all of your calibrations for records.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This picture is of storm damaged shingles on the roof of my home. This is a condition conducive for mold growth which had allowed moisture intrusion into the second floor ceiling of the home. Shingle repair and immediate drying of the affected area of ceiling prevented visible mold growth from developing.
Research & Writing Assignment:
I read the article concerning moisture meters. I have used various brands of both pin and pinless moisture meters during home inspections. This article was helpful in clarifying when, where and under what conditions each type of meter is best used. It was also helpful in reminding me that false readings can occur if metal material is present under or around the area being tested.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The first step in mold detection is identifying sources of moisture.
A moisture meter uses pins or sensor pads to scan drywall, wood and other materials where you suspect moisture is present. It can quickly help identify major problems areas.
Research & Writing Assignment:
A common misconception is that mold should be cleaned using bleach or other biocides. While this may be the case when dealing with immune-compromised occupants of a home,it is not enough to simple kill the mold. Dead mold can still cause allergic reactions. The mold must be removed using a detergent and water on hard surfaces; porous surfaces may not be able to be cleaned sufficiently and may have to be replaced.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
When performing a mold inspection, it is important to look for possible places for water intrusion. Skylights that are not properly installed or are leaking should be reported as a possible place that water is entering the structure . Confirmation should be made by looking at the skylight from the inside
Research & Writing Assignment:
Water heaters are used in a residence to heat potable water for household use. The heater may be an electric or a gas fired unit. It is important to check the gas and water connections for leaks or for cross connections. The tpr valve should be examined for proper extension and that is not leaking.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This image is of a lexan hurricane panel that is approved in maimi dade county. This is a removable plastic shutter that has been impacted tested an is TAS 201,202,203 rated. Included in the photo evidence pages should be images of window attachment points.
Research & Writing Assignment:
I have reviewed the article on mold for consumers. It ia very informative and well written. It states that if mold is visible then sampling or testing is not neccessary. However that does not permit the use of the word mold only appearent mold. It is always a good idea to do air sampling if visible indications exist and a HVAC system is present.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This is a photo of damaged flashing around a chimney. This is a condition conducive to mold growth. The damaged flashing could allow a path for moisture to enter the structure of the building. Moisture in the building creates an environment in which mold can grow. This can cause musty odors or structural defects and is aesthetically unpleasing.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Air Sampling for Mold Inspections
When conducting a mold inspection, air sampling should be performed if the inspector finds moisture intrusion, water damage, apparent mold growth, musty odors, or conditions conducive to mold growth. Air samples should me taken in the area of the structure where these conditions were found. Inspectors should take two outdoor air samples, one on the windward and one on the leeward side of the house, as well as at least one indoor air sample for comparison.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
High moisture in the crawlspace will usually lead to mold growth if not remedied quickly. In the crawlspace there is plenty of food for mold to consume and multiply through releasing airborne spores much like a flower releases pollen. In the presence of food and water, mold can grow in almost any environment if the conditions are correct, and especially in a home’s crawlspace. In the case of a mold bloom, the source of the moisture must be located to correct the problem. A broken drain pipe or water line can be fixed, but the problem of persistent ground water must be remedied, sometimes using multiple methods, such as installing a sump pump, french drain, and dehumidifier. A crawlspace should have a vapor barrier to block moisture from becoming water vapor and feeding mold growth. When it comes to mold growth, water is the enemy and should be managed year-round to ensure a dry environment in all parts of the home, thus preventing mold growth and prolonging the life and livability of the structure.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Vapor barriers are used in several different ways to prevent water vapor from entering or being trapped inside of a home. In warmer climates, vapor barriers are often installed over the sheathing on the exterior of a home, while in cooler climates it is installed on the interior of the exterior wall under the interior material used to finish wall surface. Vapor barriers are also laid on the floor of the crawlspace to prevent moisture in the soil from becoming water vapor and causing mold in the crawlspace. Water vapor inside and outside of the structure is the primary cause of mold and should be managed throughout the use of vapor barriers that are designed to block moisture penetration into the home.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Asphalt shingles on the garage roof have sustained wind damage and are missing several tabs. This will allow for water and pest infestation, and is a condition conducive to mold growth. I would recommend a reputable contractor to make the necessary repairs. Continue to monitor for any moisture, musty odor, or apparent mold growth. Testing by a certified mold inspector may then be necessary.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This image shows multiple areas of concerns. The lower framing of the small shed extending from this property had a high level of humidity. The shed had a musty odor, conditions conducive to mold growth, and apparent mold. The recommendations made to help prevent the moisture intrusion included: replacing siding in places, raising the wood in contact with the soil, sealing opening at penetrations in the siding with plumber putty, and hiring a licensed and insured contractor replace the delaminated wood.
Research & Writing Assignment:
I found an article in the indoor air quality album labeled mold uploaded July 1 2004. The image depicted a home with a dark green growth on the surface of 75% of the dry wall and a piano. This appeared to be an extreme case where it would be highly recommended for the owner to contact a mold remediation specialist.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Mold is a type of fungi that feeds on organic matter such as plants and food. Its danger to humans lies in its airborne spores that can cause respiratory problems. It can also lead to structural damage in homes and other buildings. A mold inspection starts as a non-invasive home inspection. All components including the roof, exterior, plumbing, and hvac systems are inspected for evidence of moisture or water intrusion. Vents, windows, basements, and crawlspaces are known breeding grounds for mold. 2 outdoor air samples are taken and tested as the control compared to at least 1 indoor air sample to find any elevated level of mold spores indoors. Surface samples should be taken as necessary when apparent mold growth is found. Tape, swabs, and carpet sampling are 3 types of surface sampling. All samples need to be properly labeled and packaged to be sent to a certified laboratory for analysis. A report will then be generated.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Upon inspection of the exterior, water stains were observed underneath the patio cover, however no raised levels of moisture were present at the time of inspection. Areas with water intrusion can create an environment which is conducive to biological growths such as molds or fungus.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Bay windows can be a potential area of concern when it comes to moisture. Poorly insulated bay windows can allow cool air into the home and create temperature variations. This can lead to condensation and moisture accumulating around these areas and create conditions conducive to mold growth.
Research & Writing Assignment:
I chose the pic of Grading. I know that while doing a mold inspection, if I see standing water or significant water damage to the crawl space and foundation that one thing I should look at is the grading around the house. Grading should move storm drainage away from the home not towards it. If I see that this is a problem I should write it in my inspection report and let the homeowner know. this will also require testing in the crawl space.
