How to Detect Black Mold: Your Complete 2025 Guide to Identification and Testing

Detecting black mold, specifically Stachybotrys chartarum, requires a combination of visual inspection, olfactory cues, professional expertise, and sometimes laboratory testing. Understanding how to identify potential mold growth and knowing when to seek professional assistance can protect your health and preserve your property value. Here are comprehensive steps to help identify and confirm the presence of black mold in your home or building.

Understanding Black Mold

Black mold, scientifically known as Stachybotrys chartarum, is a toxic mold species that thrives in environments with excessive moisture and organic materials. While not all dark-colored mold is Stachybotrys, this particular species releases mycotoxins that can pose serious health risks to occupants, especially those with respiratory conditions, allergies, or compromised immune systems.

Why Black Mold Detection Matters

Early identification of black mold is essential because:

• Exposure can cause significant health problems
• Mold spreads rapidly when conditions are favorable
• Structural damage increases over time
• Remediation costs escalate with delayed action
• Property values can be affected by mold history

Visual Inspection: What to Look For

Appearance Characteristics

Color and Texture: Black mold typically appears as dark greenish-black or black spots and patches. It often has a slimy, wet texture when actively growing in high-moisture environments. However, it can also appear dry and powdery if the mold colony has died out or if moisture levels have decreased.

Growth Patterns: Black mold tends to form circular or irregular patches that can spread across surfaces. The colonies may appear scattered initially but can merge into larger affected areas over time.

Common Problem Locations

Focus your inspection on areas with high humidity or moisture exposure:

Bathrooms:

• Shower walls and tile grout
• Around bathtubs and sinks
• Bathroom ceilings and exhaust fan areas
• Behind toilets and under vanities
• Bathroom windows and sills

Kitchens:

• Under sinks and around plumbing
• Behind refrigerators and dishwashers
• Around windows above sinks
• Near garbage disposals
• Inside cabinets with water exposure

Basements and Crawl Spaces:

• Foundation walls and corners
• Areas around sump pumps
• Near water heaters and HVAC systems
• Behind stored items against walls
• Around basement windows

Other High-Risk Areas:

• Attics with roof leaks or poor ventilation
• Around windows and door frames
• Behind drywall with water damage
• In and around HVAC ductwork
• Laundry rooms and utility areas

Water Damage Indicators

Visual Signs: Inspect for signs of water damage that often precede mold growth:

• Discoloration or staining on walls, ceilings, or floors
• Peeling or bubbling paint and wallpaper
• Warped or buckling floors
• Water rings or spots on surfaces
• Rust or corrosion on metal fixtures

Historical Damage: Even past water damage can harbor mold behind surfaces. Look for repaired areas, replaced sections, or documented water intrusion incidents.

Olfactory Cues: The Smell Test

Recognizing Mold Odors

Characteristic Smell: Black mold often emits a strong, distinctive musty or earthy odor. This smell is caused by microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs) released during mold growth. The odor is frequently described as:

• Musty or stale
• Earthy or soil-like
• Damp or moldy
• Similar to rotting wood or wet paper

Persistent Odors: If you notice such smells, especially in areas prone to dampness, it might indicate hidden mold growth behind walls, under flooring, or in other concealed spaces. Persistent musty odors that don’t resolve with regular cleaning warrant professional investigation.

Location-Specific Smell Checks

Pay particular attention to odors in:

• Enclosed spaces like closets and cabinets
• Areas that have been closed off for extended periods
• Rooms with poor air circulation
• Spaces adjacent to known water damage

Physical Health Symptoms

Health Issues Associated with Black Mold Exposure

Exposure to black mold can cause various health problems, particularly for sensitive individuals:

Respiratory Symptoms:

• Coughing and wheezing
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Chest tightness
• Throat irritation
• Nasal congestion or runny nose

Allergic Reactions:

• Sneezing and watery eyes
• Skin rashes or irritation
• Itchy eyes, nose, or throat
• Worsening of asthma symptoms

General Symptoms:

• Headaches and migraines
• Fatigue and weakness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Dizziness
• Memory problems

Symptom Pattern Recognition

Location-Based Symptoms: If health symptoms are present and noticeably worsen in specific areas of the home or improve when you leave the property, mold could be the underlying cause. Keep a symptom diary to identify patterns.

Vulnerable Populations: Certain groups face higher risks from mold exposure:

• Infants and young children
• Elderly individuals
• People with existing respiratory conditions
• Individuals with compromised immune systems
• Those with mold allergies or sensitivities

Measuring Environmental Conditions

Monitoring Moisture and Humidity Levels

Check Indoor Humidity: Use a digital hygrometer to measure relative humidity levels in your home. Ideal indoor humidity should be maintained between 30-50%. Levels consistently above 60% create conditions favorable for mold growth.

Strategic Monitoring: Check humidity in multiple locations:

• Bathrooms after showers
• Basements and crawl spaces
• Kitchens during cooking
• Bedrooms and living spaces
• Areas with known moisture issues

Identifying Moisture Sources

Inspect for Leaks: Conduct thorough inspections of:

• Plumbing systems including pipes, faucets, and connections
• Roof areas, especially after storms
• Windows and door seals
• Foundation cracks or gaps
• HVAC condensation lines

Ventilation Assessment: Ensure areas prone to moisture have adequate ventilation:

• Bathroom exhaust fans that vent to the exterior
• Kitchen range hoods
• Dryer vents properly connected and maintained
• Attic ventilation systems
• Crawl space ventilation

Professional Testing and Inspection

Home Testing Kits

DIY Testing Options: Home mold testing kits are available at hardware stores and online. These kits typically allow you to:

• Collect air samples using settling plates or pump devices
• Take surface samples with swabs or tape lifts
• Send samples to a laboratory for analysis
• Receive results identifying mold types present

Limitations of Home Kits: While convenient, home testing kits have some drawbacks:

• May not capture the full extent of contamination
• Can be challenging to use correctly without training
• Results may be difficult to interpret
• Don’t provide comprehensive remediation guidance

Professional Mold Inspection Services

Comprehensive Assessment: For thorough and accurate detection, professional mold inspection offers significant advantages:

Advanced Testing Methods:

• Air quality testing to measure airborne mold spore concentrations
• Surface sampling using swabs, tape lifts, or bulk samples
• Moisture mapping with specialized detection equipment
• Thermal imaging to identify hidden moisture
• Laboratory analysis by accredited facilities

Expert Analysis:

• Identification of specific mold species present
• Determination of mold spore concentrations
• Assessment of contamination severity
• Source identification and moisture analysis
• Customized remediation recommendations

Documentation and Reporting:

• Detailed written reports with findings
• Photographic documentation
• Laboratory results and analysis
• Remediation scope and specifications
• Follow-up testing recommendations

Step-by-Step Detection Process

Systematic Approach to Mold Detection

1. Identify Areas of Concern: Begin by focusing on areas with known or suspected water damage, high humidity, persistent moisture, or musty odors. Review your home’s history for past water intrusion events.

2. Conduct Visual Inspection: Systematically examine all high-risk areas looking for black or dark green spots, patches, or discoloration. Use a flashlight to inspect dark corners, behind furniture, and in closets.

3. Perform the Smell Test: Note any persistent musty odors, especially in enclosed spaces or areas that worsen when disturbed. A strong odor may indicate hidden mold growth.

4. Test Humidity Levels: Use a hygrometer to check humidity in multiple rooms and at different times of day. Document readings above 60% as these indicate favorable mold conditions.

5. Monitor for Symptoms: Track any health symptoms experienced by household members, noting when and where symptoms occur or worsen.

6. Collect Samples (If Using Home Kits): If using a home test kit, carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions to collect air or surface samples. Handle samples properly to avoid contamination.

7. Seek Professional Help: For accurate detection, species identification, and comprehensive remediation advice, contact a certified mold inspector. This is especially important if:

• Extensive mold growth is suspected
• Mold is in HVAC systems or behind walls
• Health symptoms are severe or persistent
• Property transactions require documentation
• Previous remediation has failed

Preventive Measures: Stopping Mold Before It Starts

Moisture Control Strategies

Control Indoor Humidity:

• Use dehumidifiers in damp areas like basements
• Maintain relative humidity between 30-50%
• Empty and clean dehumidifier reservoirs regularly
• Monitor humidity levels with hygrometers

Fix Leaks Promptly:

• Repair roof leaks immediately
• Fix plumbing leaks in walls, floors, and fixtures
• Address foundation cracks and seepage
• Replace damaged weather stripping on windows and doors
• Maintain gutters and downspouts to direct water away from the foundation

Ventilation and Air Circulation

Ensure Proper Ventilation:

• Use exhaust fans in bathrooms during and after showers
• Run kitchen exhaust fans when cooking
• Ensure all fans vent to the exterior, not into attics
• Open windows periodically to improve air circulation
• Install or upgrade attic and crawl space ventilation

Maintain HVAC Systems:

• Change air filters regularly (every 1-3 months)
• Schedule annual HVAC maintenance
• Clean air ducts if contamination is suspected
• Ensure condensate drain lines are clear and flowing
• Check for and repair any ductwork leaks

Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Clean and Dry High-Risk Areas:

• Regularly clean and dry bathroom surfaces, especially showers and sinks
• Wipe down kitchen counters and around sinks daily
• Clean refrigerator drip pans and door seals
• Wash and dry bath mats and shower curtains frequently
• Address spills and leaks immediately, drying affected areas within 24-48 hours

Reduce Condensation:

• Insulate cold water pipes to prevent condensation
• Use insulated windows or storm windows in cold climates
• Improve insulation in attics and crawl spaces
• Cover pots when cooking to reduce moisture

Storage and Organization

Proper Storage Practices:

• Avoid storing items against exterior walls in basements
• Use plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes in damp areas
• Maintain clearance between stored items and walls for air circulation
• Regularly inspect stored items for signs of moisture or mold
• Store valuable items in climate-controlled areas

Why Choose AirMD for Black Mold Detection and Testing

AirMD is an environmental testing and consulting company specializing in indoor air quality and building assessments. Since operations began in 2008, AirMD has been providing comprehensive mold detection and air quality services throughout Florida and nationally.

Our Expertise and Commitment

Experienced Leadership: Founder and Scientific Director Simon Hahessy has headed operations since AirMD’s inception, bringing extensive expertise in environmental science and indoor air quality assessment.

Comprehensive Services:

• Professional mold inspections and testing
• Air quality assessments
• Moisture mapping and thermal imaging
• Laboratory analysis through accredited facilities
• Detailed reporting with remediation recommendations
• Post-remediation verification testing
• Indoor air quality consulting

Advanced Technology:

• State-of-the-art testing equipment
• Thermal imaging cameras for moisture detection
• Professional-grade air sampling devices
• Moisture meters and hygrometers
• Digital documentation and reporting systems

Certified Professionals:

• Licensed and certified mold assessors
• Trained in current industry standards and protocols
• Ongoing education in emerging technologies and methods
• Experienced with diverse property types and situations

Our Process

1. Initial Consultation: We discuss your concerns, review property history, and assess symptoms or conditions reported.

2. Comprehensive Inspection: Our certified professionals conduct thorough visual inspections of all accessible areas, identifying potential mold growth and moisture sources.

3. Strategic Testing: We collect air and surface samples from affected and unaffected areas for comparative analysis.

4. Laboratory Analysis: Samples are analyzed by accredited laboratories to identify mold species and quantify concentrations.

5. Detailed Reporting: You receive a comprehensive report including findings, laboratory results, photographs, and specific recommendations.

6. Remediation Guidance: We provide clear guidance on addressing identified issues, including remediation scope and preventive measures.

7. Follow-Up Support: We offer post-remediation testing to verify successful mold removal and improved air quality.

When to Contact a Professional

Situations Requiring Expert Assessment

Contact AirMD or another certified mold professional immediately if:

Extensive Growth:

• Visible mold covering more than 10 square feet
• Multiple areas affected throughout the property
• Mold growth in HVAC systems or ductwork

Hidden Contamination:

• Strong musty odors with no visible source
• Suspected mold behind walls, under flooring, or in ceilings
• Previous water damage that wasn’t properly dried

Health Concerns:

• Persistent health symptoms that worsen at home
• Multiple household members experiencing symptoms
• Vulnerable individuals (children, elderly, immunocompromised) in the home

Property Transactions:

• Pre-purchase inspections
• Pre-listing assessments
• Insurance claims documentation
• Legal or liability concerns

Complex Situations:

• Commercial properties or multi-unit buildings
• Healthcare facilities or schools
• Properties with recurring mold problems
• Situations requiring documentation for legal purposes

Taking Action: Protect Your Health and Property

Early detection and remediation of black mold are crucial for maintaining a healthy indoor environment and preventing both health issues and structural damage. The longer mold growth continues, the more extensive the contamination becomes and the more difficult and expensive remediation becomes.

Your Next Steps

Don’t wait to address suspected mold problems. Whether you’ve noticed visual signs, detected musty odors, or experienced unexplained health symptoms, taking action now can prevent serious complications.

Schedule Your Professional Mold Inspection Today:

Contact AirMD:

• Phone: Call us at 1-888-462-4763 (1-888-GO-AIRMD)
• Online: Visit our contact page to submit your questions or schedule an inspection
• Service Areas: Serving all of Florida and select locations nationally

What to Expect:

1. Prompt response to your inquiry
2. Flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs
3. Professional, thorough inspection by certified specialists
4. Comprehensive laboratory analysis
5. Detailed reporting within days
6. Clear, actionable recommendations
7. Ongoing support throughout the remediation process

Investment in Health and Safety

The cost of professional mold testing is minimal compared to:

• Potential long-term health effects
• Extensive structural damage from undetected mold
• Property value reduction
• Emergency remediation costs
• Legal liability exposure
• Lost time from work or school due to illness

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly can black mold grow?

Under ideal conditions (adequate moisture, organic food source, and suitable temperature), mold can begin growing within 24-48 hours of water exposure. Visible colonies can develop within a week.

Can I test for mold myself?

While home testing kits are available, professional testing provides more accurate and comprehensive results. Professionals have the training to identify all affected areas, collect samples properly, and interpret results correctly.

Is all black-colored mold toxic?

Not all black-colored mold is Stachybotrys chartarum (toxic black mold). However, any mold growth should be addressed promptly, as all mold types can cause health issues and property damage.

How long does mold testing take?

On-site inspection typically takes 1-3 hours depending on property size. Laboratory analysis usually requires 3-7 business days. You’ll receive a comprehensive report shortly after results are available.

What’s the difference between mold inspection and mold testing?

Mold inspection involves visual assessment and moisture detection to identify mold growth and moisture problems. Mold testing includes laboratory analysis of collected samples to identify specific mold species and concentration levels. Most comprehensive assessments include both.

Will mold come back after remediation?

Properly conducted mold remediation combined with correction of the underlying moisture problem should permanently resolve the issue. However, new moisture problems can lead to new mold growth, which is why addressing the source is critical.

Conclusion: Prioritize Detection and Prevention

Black mold detection requires vigilance, knowledge, and often professional expertise. By understanding the signs of mold growth, monitoring environmental conditions, and taking preventive measures, you can protect your property and the health of its occupants.

Remember that early detection is key. Don’t ignore warning signs like musty odors, visible discoloration, water damage, or unexplained health symptoms. These indicators warrant immediate investigation.

Contact AirMD today for expert black mold detection and testing services:

• Call: 1-888-462-4763 (1-888-GO-AIRMD)
• Online: Submit your questions here

With our experienced team, advanced testing methods, and commitment to accuracy, AirMD provides the comprehensive assessment you need to address mold concerns effectively. Protect your health, your property, and your peace of mind with professional mold detection services from AirMD.

Since 2008, we’ve been helping property owners across Florida and beyond maintain healthy indoor environments through expert testing, analysis, and guidance. Let us put our experience to work for you.

The post Testing for Black Mold and Air Quality appeared first on Air Quality Testing by AirMD Since 2007.

The experts agree – this year we can expect an above-average hurricane season. And the environmental testing experts at AirMD agree, with above-average hurricane activity you can expect above-average mold growth. So, when you are putting together your Hurricane Preparedness Plan, make sure you have plenty of water, batteries, flashlights and the knowledge of who to call if you need a mold inspection.

When the six-month Atlantic Hurricane Season officially began on Tuesday, June 1, the first storm of the season – Tropical Storm Ana – had already come and gone.

What to Expect for Hurricane Season 2021:

• Forecasters from the renowned Colorado State University’s Tropical Weather & Climate Research Center predict a total of 17 named storms – eight of which they expect to become hurricanes. An average season
• The scientists at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) are predicting as many as 20 named storms could develop. They are forecasting that 10 of them will become hurricanes, including three to five major hurricanes (Category 3 or higher, with wind speeds topping 110 miles per hour).

While they may not all agree on the exact number of storms you can expect this year, the experts are all in agreement that we are in for a very active storm season. As Matthew Rosencrans, lead seasonal hurricane forecaster at NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, told USA Today, “Predicted warmer-than-average sea-surface temperatures in the tropical Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, weaker tropical Atlantic trade winds and an enhanced West African monsoon will likely be factors in this year’s overall activity.”

And those factors will not only fuel the development of tropical systems in the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, but they will also fuel the strength of those storms.

The health and safety of you and your family – including the furry, four-legged members of the family – should be your primary concern when it comes to making your hurricane plan and, in the event that your community is hit by one of the many storms predicted to form, when it comes to recovering in the wake of a hurricane.

If you find you will need to file an insurance claim, you may need to schedule a mold inspection. The environmental testing experts at AirMD have lots of experience dealing with the insurance companies. If you need assistance, please feel free to contact us.

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Environmental testing is usually a time-sensitive matter. Whether you need water quality testing, an indoor air quality test or, perhaps, a mold inspection, chances are that you are not calling on a whim. you need to know if you have a problem sooner rather than later.

When an emergency – like a hurricane or flood – hits your business, you need to get back up and running as fast as you can. As they say, time is money.

You could take your chances, or you could plan ahead and enjoy the peace of mind of knowing that, in the event of an emergency, the professional help you need to get your business back up and running will be there.

With the Emergency Response Services Program from AirMD, you won’t be told that we are just too busy to help you.

Urgent Environmental Testing & Inspection Services

In the event of an emergency – like a hurricane or a flood – the chances are high that your business won’t be the only one affected. People from organizations large and small will be frantically trying to get back on their feet as quickly as possible.

For many, environmental testing and inspections will be among the first steps that need to be taken.

The Emergency Response Services Program from AirMD ensures that you will have prompt access to environmental testing and related inspection services when disaster strikes.

Additional benefits of the program include:

• You will receive an independent, third-party assessment that presents a clear picture of the situation.
• Hazards that are present – or that could develop – are identified.
• We will also provide you with a written plan that shows, step by step, how to remediate the problem.
• You gain the assistance of professionals who have extensive experience working with insurance companies.

For more information about the Emergency Response Program available to AirMD’s Environmental Management System customers, contact us online or call 1-888-462-4763 or 1-888-GO-AIRMD. Our water quality testing pros as well as our indoor air quality testing experts know that every hour your business spends waiting for environmental testing to be conducted is costing your business money.

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If you ask the environmental testing experts at AirMD to conduct Wellness Testing at your house, we will assess the indoor air quality by measuring everything from airborne particles to electromagnetic radiation. We will test for VOCs, too, and assess any odors that are present. Measuring the relative humidity inside your home is also a very important part of any Wellness Test.

Why Is Relative Humidity Important?

The start of summer is still a month away, but the humidity levels are already on the rise across South Florida. You don’t need the weather team at your favorite TV station to tell you it’s humid, all you have to do is walk out the door.

Relative humidity tells us how much moisture is in the air. It’s that moisture that makes it feel like you’re walking into a wall when you step outside.

The average humidity in Boca Raton in May is 64.8 percent, according to Champion traveler. That might not sound too bad, but that’s enough to have a significant impact – both inside and outside your home.

• The impact of humidity outdoors: Let’s say it’s a sunny day in May and the temperature is 89 degrees Fahrenheit with the relative humidity at that average of 65 percent. That will produce a heat index – or a “feels like” – temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit. (Don’t ask us about the math, trust us, you don’t want to know. If you want to determine the heat index in your area, it’s much easier to use the heat index calculator provided by the National Weather Service. That’s what we do.)
• The impact of humidity indoors: Ideally, the relative humidity inside your home should fall in the 30 to 60 percent range. Below 30 percent, the air can feel uncomfortably dry. On the other hand, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends maintaining the humidity below 60 percent to prevent mold.

If you have been considering having a mold inspection done, you will be happy to know that AirMD’s Wellness Testing always includes an assessment of the amount of moisture – or the relative humidity – in the air inside your home.

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When the trained technicians from our environmental testing company visit a home or office in South Florida to do a wellness test, indoor air quality assessment or a mold inspection, one of the first things they will do is check the thermostat. We’re not concerned with the temperature setting; we want to see if the fan is set to AUTO or ON.

Even in January, South Florida, where our water and air quality testing company is based, can be hot and humid. That means our air conditioning systems get a lot of use! The air conditioning system in your home or office does more than just cool the air, though. It also lowers the humidity in your home and moves the air through the space.

Thermostat Settings

You may think that setting your fan to ON will help to keep the rooms in your home cooler, but you would be wrong.

If you have your fan set to AUTO, it will stop blowing when the air in your house reaches the desired temperature. If you have your fan set to ON, it will run continuously, regardless of fluctuations to the temperature.

So, what’s the problem?

“Since your AC is responsible for doing two jobs, cooling and dehumidifying, moisture from the air condenses on the cold evaporator coil when it runs,” the folks at Energy Vanguard explain. “By running the fan after the coil warms up, a lot of that water will evaporate and be put right back into your home.”

In other words, they say, “Your house will cool down quickly without dehumidifying well. Running the fan continuously makes the dehumidification worse and your home less comfortable.”

The folks at Energy Vanguard, which is an excellent source for information about the world of building science, home energy efficiency, green jobs and more, point out a few other reasons to keep your fan set to AUTO:

• You may create conditions that support the growth of mold
• Your energy bills will be higher
• You’ll increase your total duct leakage
• If you have unbalanced duct leakage, you may also increase the air leakage across your building enclosure.

The indoor air quality testing experts at AirMD, one of the most sought-after environmental testing companies, can help you keep your cool. Call us at 1 888 462 4763 (1 888 GO AIRMD) with your questions and concerns.

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A thorough indoor air quality assessment – including things like VOC testing, an asbestos inspection, formaldehyde testing and a mold inspection – is a good idea if employees of your company seem to be suffering ill health as a result of the time they spend on the job. Not every ailment contracted as the result of the poor indoor air quality in a workplace is as hard to pin down as Sick Building Syndrome.

With Sick Building Syndrome, the exact cause of the complaint can’t be specifically identified. There are a host of building-related illnesses, however, that can be accurately diagnosed and linked to specific contaminants in the air.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the term Sick Building Syndrome refers to “situations in which building occupants experience acute health and comfort effects that appear to be linked to time spent in a building, but no specific illness or cause can be identified. The complaints may be localized in a particular room or zone, or may be widespread throughout the building.”

On the other hand, the EPA uses the term Building Related Illness when “symptoms of diagnosable illness are identified and can be attributed directly to airborne building contaminants.”

Often this condition is temporary, but some buildings have long-term problems. Frequently, problems result when a building is operated or maintained in a manner that is inconsistent with its original design or prescribed operating procedures. Sometimes indoor air problems are a result of poor building design or occupant activities.

Sick Building Syndrome VS Building Related Illness

Sick Building Syndrome is associated with the following conditions:

• The people who work in the building may suffer from headaches, itchy eyes, throat irritation, dry cough, dry or itchy skin, dizziness, nausea and other complaints. They may be troubled by mental fogginess, fatigue and sensitivity to odors.
• Their symptoms generally ease when they leave the building.
• The specific cause of the symptoms isn’t known.

On the other hand, the EPA says the following characteristics indicate that you’re dealing with Building Related Illnesses:

• The symptoms are more specific. People who work in the building are complaining of symptoms like coughing, chest tightness, fever, chills and muscle aches.
• These symptoms can be clinically defined and have clearly identifiable causes.
• Just leaving the building may not be enough to provide relief.

According to a paper on Indoor Air Facts and Sick Building Syndrome published by the EPA, “A 1984 World Health Organization Committee report suggested that up to 30 percent of new and remodeled buildings worldwide may be the subject of excessive complaints related to indoor air quality (IAQ).”

If you think your building might be one of that 30 percent – or if you’d like information about keeping the air in your building healthy so your building doesn’t join the list – give us a call at 1-888-462-4763 or 1-888-GO-AIRMD or submit your question online. Our experts in VOC testing, asbestos inspections and mold remediation in our Boca Raton, FL headquarters will by happy to help you.

The post VOC Testing May Identify Building Related Illnesses appeared first on Air Quality Testing by AirMD Since 2007.

Did you know that, in addition to keeping our mold inspection experts busy, humidity can trigger an asthma attack? Thunderstorms can, too. Of course, here in Florida, it’s hard to avoid either of those. Now that the rainy season has arrived (it officially started on May 15), it’s going to be even harder for asthma sufferers to manage their condition.

No one knows exactly what causes asthma, so there’s no way to cure the disease. There are a lot of things that can be done to help manage it, though.

Three things you can do to guard against humidity if you or a loved one has asthma:

1. Check your air conditioning. In addition to controlling the temperature, your air conditioning system should be able to control the level of humidity inside your home or workplace. The thermostat regulates the temperature and the hygrometer controls the relative humidity in your space. It might sound tempting, but you really don’t want to have 0% humidity. For one thing, super dry air – especially cold, dry air – can also trigger an asthma attack. What’s best? According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), you’ll want to keep the relative humidity in your home below 60%. Between 30 and 50% is ideal.
2. Monitor the local air quality index. The air quality index looks at things like the amount of pollen in the air as well as the humidity level. If the air quality in your area is poor, try to limit your outdoor activities.
3. Move. Just kidding! We hope you stick around to enjoy all the wonderful things the Sunshine State has to offer from the beautiful beaches, sunny skies and delightful winters to the museums and attractions.

For more than 10 years, AirMD, has been providing an array of affordable, comprehensive environmental consulting services. We started in South Florida, performing mold tests and mold removal from Miami to Orlando – as well as VOC and formaldehyde testing and asbestos inspections. Now, we offer our science-based services and special brand of super customer service across the country.

We’re here, if there’s anything we can do to help you, your family or your business manage humidity – and a host of other asthma triggers, including:

• Pollen
• Dust particles
• Dust mites
• Pet dander
• Cockroach and rodent allergens

If you’d like more information about how to maintain healthy indoor air quality, give us a call at 1-888-462-4763 or 1-888-GO-AIRMD or submit your question online and an AirMD consultant will get back to you.

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You would think that keeping your home clean would be one of the best things you could do to protect your indoor air quality and avoid the need for VOC testing or a mold inspection, right? Unfortunately, as the experts at AirMD, specialists in environmental testing and mold remediation in Boca Raton, FL, will tell you, that might not be the case.

Of course, not doing the house cleaning isn’t the solution. (It would be nice if we didn’t have to do it, though, wouldn’t it?!) What you’ll need to do to make sure you’re not releasing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful chemicals into the air your family is breathing is read the labels and understanding what is in the cleaning products that you’re using.

According to the American Lung Association, “Household and cleaning products—including soaps, polishes and grooming supplies—often include harmful chemicals. Even products advertised as ‘green’ or ‘natural’ may contain ingredients that can cause health problems. Some cleaning supplies can even be flammable or corrosive.”

That’s right. There is no law that says manufacturers have to list everything that goes into the products they are trying to sell you. Just because the label says something is an eco-friendly choice, don’t believe it. Do your own research!

How to avoid harmful VOCs and chemicals in cleaning and household products

Here are some tips from the American Lung Association that can help you keep the air in your home safe:

• Read all labels on cleaning supplies and household products before you buy them. Choose products that do not contain or have reduced amounts of VOCs, fragrances, irritants and flammable ingredients.
• Avoid using air fresheners altogether.
• Follow the directions and use products only as they are intended.
• The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has put together a list of cleaning products you might use in your home or car that meet its Safer Choice requirements.
• As a safer cleaning alternative, warm water and soap often will do the trick, especially at home. Baking soda is good for scrubbing. A mix of vinegar and water can clean glass.
• When using cleaning or household products, keep the area well ventilated. Open windows and doors. Never use cleaning products in a small, enclosed space.

If you have concerns that your irritated eyes, scratchy throat, headaches or other health problems might be related to the quality of the air in your home, you can call the air quality experts at AirMD at 1 888 GO AIRMD (1-888-462-4763). We will help you determine if VOC testing is right for you. We offer professional residential and commercial services throughout the state of Florida, ranging from formaldehyde testing Jacksonville to mold removal in Miami.

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The experts agree. The incidence of allergies and asthma is on the rise – among children and adults. Mold is one of the most common triggers for allergy and asthma attacks. Having a residential mold inspection may help you identify health risks in your home. Formaldehyde testing and testing for VOCs (volatile organic compounds) may also help you maintain a healthy environment within your home.

Allergies are nothing to sneeze at. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), allergies are a serious health concern in the United States. “Allergies are the 6th leading cause of chronic illness in the U.S. with an annual cost in excess of $18 billion. More than 50 million Americans suffer from allergies each year,” they report.

Should you be concerned about mold?

You and your family may be at a greater risk of being exposed to mold depending on where you live. Mold inspections in Florida and other hot humid areas are common. AirMD’s experts are frequently called in for mold remediation in Boca Raton, FL – where our corporate offices are located. Our experts are also in demand for mold inspections in Miami, mold removal in Orlando and mold removal in Jacksonville.

Of course, Florida isn’t the only place where mold thrives. For example, the need for mold testing in Houston increased dramatically in the wake of Hurricane Harvey.

Testing for mold and other environmental hazards is important because, as the CDC points out, “Allergies can generally not be prevented but allergic reactions can be.” The only way to do that is to avoid contact with whatever it is that you or your child is allergic to. In many cases, that is easier said than done.

The presence of mold in your home is nothing to be ashamed of. Mold is a common problem. All it takes is a small leak or water intrusion. The leak might be so small, you aren’t even aware of it.

We’re experts and we have to rely on state-of-the-art equipment to identify the source and extent of any mold problem!

If you would like to talk to one of our environmental consultants about the possible need for mold testing in Boca Raton, FL, mold removal in Tampa or a mold inspection in any of the other many areas we serve, please call 1 888 GO AIRMD.

The post Can mold testing ease your child’s allergies? appeared first on Air Quality Testing by AirMD Since 2007.