Using a Mold Testing Kit to Test for Mold

Mold and mildew are interchangeable terms. Mold is usually referred to as the fuzzy black, green and other colored growths and mildew is usually thought of as white. Both mold and mildew grow on organic surfaces. Mold and mildew are actually fungi.

We are all familiar with black bread mold. Its true name is Aspergillus niger. This mold starts as an airborne spore, which then lands on a surface. If this surface is organic in makeup and there is sufficient moisture, the spore will start to grow. As it spreads, the mold starts the development of a threadlike network called mycelium. It sets down hyphae, which is similar to a root system. It is through this system that the mold "eats" and starts to breakdown the organic material it has attached itself to. After the hyphae are set, the mold continues to grow upward. As it grows it forms sporangia, the parts where we see the color of the mold. As the sporangia grow, they eventually break open and shoot out mold spores. Then the cycle starts all over again. If you see mold in your home or place of work, it is important to know what type of mold it is, as certain types of mold may cause health problems in humans. A test needs to be done to determine the mold species. First, get a DIY mold test kit and collect the samples according to the directions in the package. Then you need to close, seal and send the samples to a lab. After the lab has analyzed your specimen, it will inform you of what type of mold you have.

The mold testing kit has a container to put the mold into. This container has a sticky surface. You simply scrape the mold into the container using the scraper that comes with the mold testing kit or you can use a new paint scraper that you have cleaned off with rubbing alcohol. Clean the scraper after each use. This keeps the samples from contaminating each other. Dispose of the scraper when you are done.

Your mold testing kit should have a label with it. Be sure to mark the label with the property name and address, location of test site, time and length of test and the tester's name. There should also be a test number that must be included on the sample. Affix the label to the bottom of the mold testing kit when you are done.

Be sure to take every safety precaution when scraping or working with mold. Always wear gloves, protective eye wear and mask, or a full face respirator that has an organic vapor filter. Taking these precaution will prevent you from having a possible reaction if exposed to the toxic types of mold.

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