Types of Tools Used for Detecting Moulds in Buildings

Mould assessment is crucial for buildings that are located in areas prone to high rainfall. All kinds of mould are not visible to the naked eye; hence, significant growth can pass unnoticed. Unethical practices by landlords and building owners (painting over the mould, failure to conduct thorough cleaning) also lead to an unchecked mould infestation.

Why is mould assessment necessary?

Mould infestation leads to serious health problems among all ages of the population, but it is especially detrimental to the elderly, the very young, and those with compromised immune systems. Exposure to significant amounts of mould can manifest in the following conditions:

• Lung diseases (bronchitis, asthma, and in rare but deadly cases, hypersensitivity pneumonitis)
• Respiratory difficulties involving the throat, nose, and lungs
• Skin issues such as eczema
• Respiratory infections
• Allergic rhinitis

Mould can exacerbate existing illnesses and conditions, and diseases often require prolonged and expensive treatment. It is especially essential for residential, educational, and commercial establishments to enlist professionals for a thorough mould assessment to prevent such mishaps.

What are some mould-detecting tools?

Getting help from specialists means that you get access to industry-tested tools and cutting-edge technology for the removal of moisture, moulds, and other similar contaminants. Here are mentioned some A-listed tools that are helpful in assessing moulds:

1. Moisture meter

This device is helpful for finding an accumulation of moisture on surfaces of floors, ceilings, and drywalls. This tool is incredibly accurate when it comes to detecting the presence of both residual and active moisture in building interiors. Water’s presence in wood or drywall leads to the formation of moulds in just a couple of days. Thus, finding the water source and stopping it right there is the first step one needs to take to prevent this problem. For effective mould assessments, moisture meters use radio frequency to determine an approximate moisture level. The scanning is done in a way that causes no harm to your property.

2. Infrared camera

This is an example of a piece of machinery whose cutting-edge technology allows experts to do tasks in the quickest and simplest manner. In order to locate the mould without having to scramble into every crevice of the building, experts use an infrared camera. The camera shows a thermogram that is interpreted by an expert thermographer. This person is able to identify the precise points where humidity is higher, thereby increasing the chances of more mould growth. With the identification of the problem area, the rest of the process becomes much easier.

3. Hygro-thermometer

With this device, both moisture content and temperature can be calculated to measure relative humidity. Wherever higher humidity is detected, that place has a greater chance of mould formation. Hygro-thermometers help specialists with mould assessments so as to let them find out the level of the problem. Dew points can also be measured with this device. It is helpful for comprehending whether the air is saturated with too much moisture. Professionals use this device at every inspection to fully understand whether your building is prone to mould growth.

4. Particle scanner

Professionals use the particle scanner to read the air quality by sizing and counting the number of air particles. If a room has mould growth, then the particle scanner would detect air particles that range from a size of two to twenty microns. This tool is thus great for finding exactly how much pollutants are trapped in a building. The cleanliness level is also understood so that the inhabitants can decide for themselves whether the living space is suitable anymore or not.

Mould Assessment Vs. Mould Remediation

It is important to note that mould assessment differs from mould remediation. Mould assessment comprises identifying the type and amount, if any, of mould in a specific location. Specialists undertake visual and physical inspections, test air quality, and determine what is spurring the growth of mould, such as the presence of excessive moisture. Mould remediation, on the other hand, aims to eliminate the presence of mould and chalks out a strategy to prevent a recurrence.

Mould assessment specialists come equipped with sets of modern tools that can detect mould growth at the slightest level. Not only for mould assessment, but such advanced tools might also uncover other harmful elements. Leave it up to the professionals to identify the affected area and seal it off until it has been rectified. They take good care in disposing of the mould-affected parts with proper rules and regulations. Due to their helpful tips, you can further prevent the growth of moulds and live in a healthy environment where moisture is in control and the air is safe for breathing. Irrespective of how big or small the issue is, these specialists arrive prepared with the tools and solve the problem at the earliest.