Asbestos, Lead, and Mold Inspection and Removal in South Dakota
Mold Inspection Services in South Dakota
Mold inspection can help homeowners determine the sources of indoor air quality concerns. Remember, mold is ubiquitous in indoor and outdoor environments, and many companies conduct inaccurate testing in order to frighten homeowners into paying a large remediation bill.
Where Does Mold Grow?
Mold spores are everywhere in the environment, both indoors and out. Spores can only grow and thrive, however, when they have a food source, water, and light. Mold can grow on many kinds of materials, so food is seldom limiting. Dry conditions, however, inhibit mold growth and addressing a mold issue almost always begins with identifying a moisture problem, i.e. a roof leak, cracks in the foundation, high humidity, etc. Mold thrives particularly on sheetrock paper backing and porous wood surfaces (like OSB sheeting).
What Is A Mold Inspection?
Because mold can be visually observed and (usually) smelled, a mold inspection ultimately becomes an inspection to determine the SOURCE of the mold growth. A good inspector will combine knowledge of moisture intrusion points, building science, and ventilation systems in order to pinpoint the source of the moisture issue that is leading to mold growth. Once the SOURCE issue is resolved, the remediation work is usually fairly simple and can be done by almost anyone.
Mold Inspection Equipment:
A good mold inspector needs testing equipment in order to adequately investigate moisture source issues. Prairie Environmental Consulting utilizes the following equipment to conduct a thorough mold inspection:
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Moisture meter (to test moisture content of building materials like wood, sheetrock, and even concrete)
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Thermometer
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Hygrometer (measures relative humidity)
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FLIR E6 Infrared Camera (greatly assists with investigation for moisture intrusion behind walls, above, ceilings, and inside roofs that an inspection would otherwise be unable to see)
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Borescope (for investigating wall cavities)
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Camera for documentation
Why Use a Third Party Mold Inspector?
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Prairie Environmental Consulting does VERY LITTLE actual mold remediation work and the client can rest assured that there will be no attempt to "run up the bill" when it comes to inspecting and advising a client. The information gathered will be neutral and unbiased.
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If a mold remediation company conducts an inspection and provides a remediation quote, don't hesitate to call Prairie Environmental to get a second opinion on the issue.
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Prairie Environmental has extensive experience performing mold inspections and we are well aware of the costs of mold remediation jobs and can present all options to building owners.
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Prairie Environmental makes every attempt to limit costs of mold inspection work. Air sampling is ALMOST NEVER a necessary component of an effective mold remediation, and therefore we do not routinely conduct air sampling for mold. A good visual inspection from someone experienced in the area of water damage and microbial conditions is more than sufficient for 99% of mold inspection work.
Prairie Environmental Consulting, LLC has the knowledge and experience to answer questions about mold concerns or consult on mold projects where a second opinion is needed. Don't hesitate to call