Ecolibria specialises in Mould testing / mould inspection. We conduct a business or home inspection focusing on indoor air quality,toxic mould such as black mould and mould removal.

Mould / Mold / Mildew problems are often left unsolved and the mould is simply removed whenever it appears. Removing mould does not get rid of the problem and it will always return unless the source of the problem is discovered and rectified. Specialised equipment is required to measure the amount of moisture in the building material and thereby trace the path and source of the moisture.

Mould sampling can also be conducted. Air and surface samples can be taken and sent to a certified laboratory for analysis. The concentration and types of mould present can then be reported and a remediation plan to clean up all the mould can be developed. This sampling is critical to determine the extent to which mould may have spread to other areas because mould can be present even if it cannot be seen. Toxic mould is often a cause of sick building syndrome.

The mould problem may be a result of a broken roof tile, leaking water pipe, lack of ventilation or simply bad building design and / or building materials. 

What is mould ?

Mould is a type of fungus and requires a food source and moisture to germinate. Many standard building materials (eg. Gypsum) provide a perfect food source for mould. Moulds are highly resistant and can remain dormant for years. Mould can grow on any carbon containing materials. Mildew is also a type of fungus and is mould in its early stages. Some moulds are beneficial and some are harmful. Some mould species contain mycotoxins which can cause serious health effects. There is often black mould, red mould, green mould, pink mould as well as blue mould. Mildew is usually grey or white. Mold and mildew growth starts within 24 - 48 hours of exposure to moisture.

Health effects of mould

Mould causes various health effects like eye, nose and throat irritation / inflammation, wheezing, nasal congestion, sneezing, sinusitis, asthma, recurring colds, headaches, coughing and sore throat, fatigue not eradicated by rest, Candida, rashes and various skin conditions. If the mould problem is not rectified the health problems will escalate and have the potential to cause long term health effects. With prolonged toxic mould exposure the endocrine and nervous system can be affected and this can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, mood changes and memory loss. The primary concern is breathing in toxic mould spores as this can seriously compromise the body's immune system. This is particularly the case of those with chronic illnesses, the elderly, infants and those with existing respiratory ailments such as asthma. In some cases toxic mould exposure has been fatal to humans and animals.

Some commercial chemical products used to remove mould, are often quite toxic and have the potential to cause adverse health effects.

What is involved in having a mould audit conducted in my home or business?

• A consultant will personally discuss your specific concerns and requirements.
• A consultant will visit your site at a time that suits you best.
• A digital Protimeter will be used to measure moisture content in the building materials of the structure and every effort will be made to identify the root cause of the mould growth.
• Results will be explained and various recommendations will be provided.
• Air and surface mould sampling can also be done if required and certified lab reports detailing the species and concentration of mould can be provided
• If remediation / mould removal is necessary then this service can also be provided.
• If required a formal written report detailing the problem areas and recommendations will be provided.

The cost of services vary according to the size and complexity of the job so please don’t hesitate to contact us to discuss your specific requirements.