Home inspections are important to address the issues at hand. Timely repairs are essential for the maintenance of a building. It improves the longevity of a building, as well as cleaner homes, are safer.
This post is about the inspections carried out to detect the presence of two major health hazards, mold and lead. Both of these hazards can emerge in new and old buildings but the older houses are at greater risk.
If you own a house built a few decades ago, you should actively assess the condition of the home. If you have funky smells at home consider mold testing in Los Angeles. Let us look at the causes, hazards, inspection methods and remediation for mold and lead.
What Is Mold?
Mold is living organisms growing together which belong to Kingdom Fungi. Molds only need some moisture, warm temperature and little amount of nutrients to grow.
It grows in damp and warm areas of a home. The spores produced are fast spreading. It only takes 24 hours to grow in the areas with water retention.
Causes of Mold Growth
- High Humidity
If your home is in a place where the moisture content of air is high, your house is at risk of mold growth. You need to install a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture. Mold can cause extensive and expensive damages.
2) Water Leaks
There can be multiple reasons for water leaks. The leaky roof may provide an entryway to water. A burst pipe or overfilled tanks can bring in excess water in the home.
In some cases, natural disasters like floods or fires can cause water retention in a building. Any of these reasons may be the underlying cause of mold growth. Evade water woes as effectively as possible.
3) Condensation
Your attic or HVAC systems may have condensation of water vapors. Mold gets a silent way into your home by the condensation.
4) Poor Ventilation
Another very common reason for mold growth is poor ventilation. When indoor air is not properly circulated, especially in the bathroom, high moisture can encourage the growth of fungus.
5) Hazards Of Mold Growth
Various studies have associated mold growth with several diseases. Some molds only cause discomfort and may not be the reason for any serious disease. The spores have been found as eye and skin irritant. Some species of mold may worsen asthma or issues of the respiratory tract.
There is a mold, commonly known as “black mold” which can be fatal. You should consider mold testing if you find any signs.
6) Mold Inspection
State and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have provided clear guidelines about the mold inspection process. The certified mold inspectors are called to assess the condition and suggest the remediation process for each case.
It begins with a thorough evaluation survey. A few questions will be asked about the time you have experienced the issue and potentially affected areas. The physical growth locations are identified. Samples are taken for sending them to the laboratories.
Air samples and surface samples are collected. There are various methods of sampling. The affected material may be sent in bulk. Swap and tape samples are also used. Once the area is inspected properly the next step is remediation.
7) Mold Remediation
The affected materials are discarded after proper containment. Larger materials or surfaces such as walls, floors or wood are cleaned with strong chemicals. Appropriate protective measures should be taken for remediation.
It is suggested to hire a mold remediation company instead of risking your safety and health. Once the house is clear from mold, it is reassessed for any remaining signs.
What Is Lead?
Lead is a naturally occurring element in the Earth’s crust. It is found in small amounts. Lead is used by humans for its beneficial purposes but it can pose health threats to the humans working around it. Young children and pregnant women are at highest risk.
Causes of Lead Contamination
- Home Paint
The most common cause of lead contamination is residential buildings is home painting. Lead-based paints were is common use till 1978. If you have an old home, high chances are that it has lead paint. It can lead to lead poisoning.
Lead paint is still present in millions of American households. You might not see it but the lead might be slightly leaching into home air from the layers underneath the fresh paint coat.
2. Yards And Playgrounds
As it is found in Earth’s crust, some areas may be at higher risk of lead concentration. The soil contains significant amounts of lead. The yards and playgrounds may be a reason for lead contamination in your house.
If you see any signs or symptoms, find a lead testing company in Los Angeles. If the lead exceeds the recommended limits, ask for expert advice.
3. Products
Some of the household products may bring lead into the house. Painted toys, furniture or jewelry may be carrying amounts of lead. Biting such items can lead to lead poisoning. Ensure that you always buy toys for your kids which are lead-safe.
Some cheap cosmetics or food containers may also have lead. Though its use is banned in most areas, a lot of products are yet manufactured using lead.
4. Dust
If you work in or around a factory dealing with lead, the dust coming with you may be poisonous.
5. Drinking-Water
The corrosion of plumbing materials can be a reason for lead contamination. Water with low pH and mineral contents are at high risk.
Hazards of Lead Contamination
It is a cumulative toxicant that can affect numerous body systems. The children and fetuses at the greatest risk. Adults can suffer from cardiovascular diseases or kidney failure at worse. In children, the lead can cause convulsions, coma or even death.
Lead Testing and Inspection
Hire an Allergen Testing Service in Los Angeles before it’s too late. Keeping yourself and your loved ones safe should be your priority. Hire professional remediation services as there is no safe “lead concentration”.
