Read the Article on Moisture meters. Was interesting to read about how they work and what substance have different moisture properties. I also would like to learn more about false results and what can cause them and how to better avoid making the mistake of calling them out.
When an inspector has been hired to do a mold inspection he must make the client aware of all that it pertains. The inspector will generate hypothesis about the mold and remediation that can be confirmed after testing is completed.
Mold can begin to grow very quickly after a flood. Materials that have been exposed to moisture need to be dried out in the first 48hrs to help prevent mold growth. The use of fans in the beginning is the most effective method of drying.
This is a picture of a crawlspace foundation wall. There is visual moisture present. The area was tested with a moisture meter at which time the presence of moisture was confirmed. The cause of moisture was determined to be a downspout from the gutter dumping directly onto the foundation wall.
I read the article on air sampling for mold inspections. This article covered different types of air sampling devices. It also covered when and where to measure, as well when and where not to measure. Air sampling and visual inspections are key in mold testing.
The cabinet under the kitchen sink are clean and dry with no evidence of past or present water damage. Both the supply and waste plumbing appear to be properly installed with no evidence of water leaks. Also, the dishwasher is properly plumbed showing no signs of water leaks. In conclusion there is no visible evidence of apparent mold growth under the kitchen sink.
Proper chimney flashing are important to keep water out of the building envelope. It’s important to understand the proper why to install flashing on different types of chimneys such as brick or metal type B vents. If you observe improper flashing during the course of your inspection its important to properly document that fact and insure your client understands the risks involved in not correcting the defects.
Mold starts growing in HVAC systems for two primary reasons: moisture and food.Mold in HVAC air filter happens When your house is warm, water vapor can begin to form on the inside of your air ducts as cold air is pushed through them. If there is a high level of humidity in the air, the water will begin to collect instead of evaporating.
The photo is of basement drywall in a closet that has a waste plumbing pipe running through it. This is an example of apparent mold growth. A check for active plumbing leakage should be performed, and moisture meter readings take to determine if there is elevated moisture currently in the drywall.
my essay is from an article called moisture meters for inspectors. It explains that a moisture meter is a device designed to measure the moisture content of various building materials, such as roofing, siding, insulation, drywall, plaster, wood, tile and fiberglass. Structural and safety hazards, such as mold, rot and decay are all potential consequences of elevated moisture levels in these materials. An inspector can use a moisture meter to locate moisture that would not otherwise be apparent.
After mold remediation, the affected areas should be free of visible mold, damp areas, and musty odors. Sources of water or moisture intrusion should have been eliminated during remediation in order to prevent mold growth from recurring in those areas.
After removing the fungi from the duct work, I realized how important it is to use proper Protective Equipment to do the fungi removal. Normally I would have removed it with no respirator, gloves, or Tyvek suits. It is very important that you use the correct style respirator.
Upon inspection of the duct work in the crawlspace form of fungi was spotted in the insulation wrap, Swab samples were taken and shipped to Lab Pro for results. Results came back as two different forms of mold. Buyers were notified of results.
Mold can form anywhere there is the right amount of moisture and temperature. It grows on porous materials such as gypsum, clothing and concrete. Molds are made up of masses of thread-like cells called hyphae. After the maturity of the mold occurs, spores are spread from the hyphae. The spores will grow anywhere conditions are favorable and can occur within 48 hours.
I recently reviewed the article named Cause of Deaths in the U.S… The statistics shown were very interesting. I was surprised to learn that lung cancer caused by Radon gas was the thirteenth leading cause of death in the United States.
Mold can grow quickly and can impair the health of the occupant. Carpets are especially great breading grounds for mold; especially those in basements. No visible mold needs to be on the carpet for mold to already be growing. Mildew, discoloration or wet padding underneath carpets can breed mold. Prevention is key is having a healthy home. If you cannot prevent it, cleaning the carpet is essential. Steam cleaning the carpet is the best way to get out moisture, as long as the issue is found quickly. Otherwise, the carpet will need to be replaced.
Condition conducive the growth of organisms, moisture concerns and black spotting/discoloration was observed at the HVAC/forced air heater air return interior wall finishes. Moisture appears to be entering this area from the indoor air component of the air conditioning system. The air conditioning evaporative condensate drain(s) have been leaking for some time causing damage and moisture concerns in this area. Suggest further evaluation by a qualified microbial specialist and removal of damaged walls by a licensed and qualified company thats handles proper remediation.
I choose “Air Sampling For Mold Inspections” for my essay.
Air samples can and typically should be used to verify and provide information with moisture and mold concerns. Weather conditions can affect air sampling. Winds and rapid changes in barometric pressure increase the difference in air pressure between the interior and exterior, which can increase the variability of airborne mold-spore concentration. I learned that two exterior air samples and one interior air sample should be taken/done and recorded.
I look forward to taking this course and passing this course.
