Mould is one of the most common indoor air quality issues found in homes. Even though small amounts of mould occur naturally, growth inside your home can quickly turn into a serious problem. It can damage your property, create unpleasant odors, and trigger health issues, especially for children, seniors, and people with allergies or asthma.
This is why professional mould testing is essential for identifying hidden problems and ensuring a healthy indoor environment.
What Is Mould and Why Does It Grow?
Mould is a type of fungus that thrives in moist, humid, and poorly ventilated areas.
Common places where mould grows include:
- Bathrooms
- Basements
- Crawlspaces
- Attics
- Around windows
- Behind walls
- Under carpets
- Areas affected by leaks or flooding
Mould spreads through microscopic spores that travel through the air. Once these spores land on a damp surface, they begin to grow and multiply.
Signs You May Have Mould in Your Home
If you notice any of the following, mould testing may be necessary:
- Musty or earthy odors
- Visible black, green, or white spots
- Water stains on walls or ceilings
- Recurring condensation on windows
- Peeling paint or wallpaper
- Increased allergy or asthma symptoms
Sometimes mould is completely hidden, especially behind drywall, under flooring, or inside HVAC systems — making professional testing even more important.
Why Mould Testing Matters
1. Protects Your Health
Exposure to mould can cause:
- Sneezing, coughing, and irritation
- Headaches
- Shortness of breath
- Asthma flare-ups
- Fatigue
- Skin or eye irritation
Testing helps identify the type and level of mould present so you can take the right steps to eliminate it.
2. Identifies Hidden Moisture Problems
Where there is mould, there is moisture. Testing helps detect hidden issues such as:
- Plumbing leaks
- Poor ventilation
- Foundation cracks
- Roof leaks
- High humidity levels
Fixing the root cause prevents mould from returning.
3. Prevents Property Damage
Mould can:
- Weaken drywall
- Damage insulation
- Rot wood
- Reduce indoor air quality
- Lower property value
Early testing saves you money by addressing problems before they spread.
4. Ensures Safe Remediation
Professionals use mould test results to create a proper remediation plan. This helps determine:
- The type of mould
- The extent of contamination
- Whether containment or specialized equipment is needed
How Professional Mould Testing Works
1. Visual Inspection
A certified inspector checks areas prone to moisture and looks for visible mould, staining, leaks, or humidity problems.
2. Air Sampling
Air samples are collected to measure mould spores in different rooms and compare them to outdoor levels. This detects hidden mould growth.
3. Surface Sampling
Swab or tape-lift samples are taken from suspected areas to identify the mould species.
4. Moisture Detection
Moisture meters, infrared cameras, and humidity readings help locate the source of the problem.
5. Laboratory Analysis
Samples are analyzed by a certified lab to detect:
- Type of mould
- Spore concentration
- Potential health risks
6. Detailed Report & Recommendations
You receive a full report outlining:
- Areas affected
- Types of mould found
- Moisture sources
- Recommended remediation steps
What to Do If Mould Is Found
If mould is confirmed:
- Do not attempt to remove large contaminated areas yourself
- Fix the moisture source immediately
- Hire a professional mould remediation company
- Use proper containment and HEPA filtration during cleanup
Proper remediation ensures mould does not spread or return.
Conclusion
Mould testing is one of the most effective ways to protect your home, your health, and your investment. Whether you suspect a leak, notice a musty odor, or simply want peace of mind, a professional mould inspection can give you clear answers and help you create a safe living environment.