WHY TEST FOR MOLD, POLLEN & DUST MITES?
According to the EPA, mold is a microscopic fungus that thrives indoors when excessive moisture or water accumulates or when moisture problems remain undiscovered or unaddressed. Mold spores are in the air that you breathe and are produced by mold growing on damp or wet surfaces. In order for mold to grow indoors, it needs a food source (such as wood, wallboard, wallpaper, ceiling tiles, or carpet), a source of moisture and time to grow. Pollen is one of the most common allergens created by various trees, grasses and weeds. The number of people in the United States affected by pollen (hay fever) is between 20 and 40 million. Individuals who suffer from eczema or are asthmatic, tend to be more susceptible to developing long-term hay fever. Dust mites sometimes called bed mites, live and multiply in warm humid places and mites may be the most common trigger of year-round allergies and asthma. Dust mites are tiny microscopic relatives of the spider and live in mattresses, bedding, upholstered furniture, carpets and curtains.
When inhaled, mold spores, pollen and dust mites can cause a wide range of health problems including respiratory issues (wheezing), nasal and sinus congestion, watery and red eyes, nose and throat irritation, skin irritation, aches, pains, and fevers. Exposure to mold and allergens is not healthy for anyone, but the following individuals are at a higher risk for adverse health effects: infants, children, elderly, immunocompromised persons, and individuals with existing respiratory conditions.
Since mold spores and allergens, are virtually invisible to the naked eye, the only way to know if you have them is to test. Analyzing the ordinary dust in your home is the best way to discover if there are current or historical contaminants present. Dust sampling for mold and other allergens has been proven to be the most accurate and versatile way to test your home according to the IAC2 (International Association of Certified Indoor Air Consultants).
The PRO-LAB® MOLD+ TEST KIT is designed for “do it yourself” use with reliable results. It uses the same sampling methods that are used by professional mold inspectors and industrial hygienists worldwide. The test kit offers four (4) easy sampling methods that inexpensively detect dangerous levels of microscopic viable (living) and non-viable (dead) mold spores that may be present in your home. The first two (2) dust collection sampling methods are an accurate way to determine the presence of mold, pollen and dust mites in your indoor environment. If so desired, the second two (2) sampling methods allow you to take a sample of visible mold growth or a small bulk sample of mold. Once you’re done taking the sample, place it in the pre-paid postage envelope provided and mail back to PRO-LAB®. Within 7 business days after our receipt you will receive a detailed direct microscopic analysis lab report providing accurate and reliable results of any mold spores, dust mites and/or pollen present in your sample. A laboratory analysis fee of $40 is required for lab results. Express service (72 hour) is also available; see details inside.