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Mold Inspection, Removal & Remediation
in Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton & beyond!

Toronto and the GTA are made up of established neighborhoods populated with older homes and one of the biggest concerns for property owners is the presence of mold. Greater Toronto Area properties that suspect the fungus in their space should immediately perform professional mold inspections, mold testing, mold removal, or mold remediation processes in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Areas to confirm the presence of the dangerous hazard. Lack of air circulation and increased humidity are prime conditions for the fungus to take hold of an area and spread. Mold can develop fast creating unsightly visuals on walls and other components of the house but the actual appearance of mold is only the beginning as the fungus will release harmful bacteria and spores in the air.

Contact InchbyInch Inspectors ASAP if you suspect signs of mold and we will discuss the costs and options for mold removal services. We are an InterNACHI certified mold removal & mold remediation company serving Toronto, Mississauga, Vaughan, Oakville, Brampton, Burlington and surrounding areas in the GTA

The health risks of undetected mold in Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton and the GTA

Mold contamination is one of the more tricky problems to visually detect as it can easily develop and fester in the most inaccessible places within the property. Preventing mold, or later finding and mold remediation is critical for your home or business property as the fungus can spread fast and damage walls and adjacent structures. But the real risks for the appearance of mold is health related and as the fungus develops, it will release a consistent stream of airborne spores and bacteria into the air within the property. Breathing in Mold Removal Toronto moldy air will have short term health effects such as:

  • Constant lethargy and sleepiness
  • Breathing problems and shortness of breath
  • Skin and eye irritation

Bad quality and moldy air can also create severe long term health problems due to headaches and poor sleep patterns. Therefore, proper testing and mold remediation in Toronto is an essential first step when any changes in quality of life occur.

The why’s and where’s of mold growth

The two biggest factors in mold growth is airflow and humidity. Bad or restricted airflow will not allow moisture to evaporate which means increased humidity in a defined space. Mold can easily start to develop in areas that experience high humidity with little to no air circulation. Common residential areas where mold can appear are:

  • Basements, cellars and unfinished parts of the building
  • Attics, crawl spaces and storage areas
  • Garages and outdoor sheds
  • Laundry rooms and kitchens

Commercial spaces with exposed piping and complex engineering can also be susceptible to mold development and it would make business sense to perform proper testing on a regular basis to confirm the presence of the fungus and get professional mold remediation done, if required. 

About the Indoor Air Quality Assessment in Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton and the GTA

Professionals who are experienced with mould issues and familiar with current guidelines must conduct all sampling. Inch by Inch Inspections are here to help you breathe fresh air, not contaminated air. When samples are taken, regardless of the purpose, the results should help answer a clear question. To begin with, what is required to evaluate the air you breathe is called an “Indoor Air Quality Assessment”. It could include a simple laboratory report of the degree of contamination of an area inside of your residence or place of work. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions and/or require more information about Air Sampling whether it is in your home or office. Contact Inch by Inch Inspections today for mold inspection in Mississauga, Toronto and the GTA.

A proper mold inspection will include the following:

Mold Remediation Toronto - Home Exterior Inspection  In-Depth Exterior Inspection

  • This allows for identification of possible areas of concern, where moisture or water may enter the property

Mold Remediation Toronto - Home Interior Inspection  Indoor Visual Inspection

  • By inspecting each room throughout the property and testing air temperature and air humidity, we can ascertain areas that require a closer analysis

Mold grows anywhere in your home

Mold Remediation Toronto & MississaugaMold is a biological organism that can grow on most surfaces throughout your home. Areas affected by mold usually have tell tale discoloration or surface irregularities but mold spores and bacteria it produces is smaller than dust particles and cannot be identified by sight when the air is contaminated. Mold can also grow in the most inaccessible areas of your home and may be difficult to visually detect. These areas are more troublesome as unchecked mold can grow fast and destroy surfaces. A detailed air quality test by professionals is the surest way to determine if mold exists in your home.

The causes of mold in residential homes - Toronto and the GTA 

Mold needs very little to take hold of an area. Dark spaces and surfaces like wood, drywall and even fabrics are ideal spots for mold development. The root cause of mold, however, is excess moisture and humidity. Rooms such as laundry rooms and bathrooms are prime examples of areas of the home prone to excess moisture. Elevated humidity in the home can be caused by a number of factors:

  • Poor or restricted ventilation along the exterior
  • Malfunctioning or efficient exhaust fans in bathrooms and laundry rooms
  • Exterior cracks that can be either air or water leaks
  • Improper air flow inside the home
  • Leaking pipe segments
  • Previous flood damage

Heating and cooling systems that are not operating properly can cause condensation on windows that trickle down to wood window sills and frames which is a mold hotspot in residential homes. Overuse of furnaces during the winter months will also cause excess humidity on glass and other surfaces. If you have a central humidifier in your home, make sure the unit is clean and the filters are clear to ensure proper air flow and humidity balance.

Research and Studies Related to Health Repercussions of Mold:

Unchecked mold can spread quickly

Mold is an efficient fungus and can start growing as soon as a spore attaches itself to a surface. Once attached, mold can germinate and develop within 24 to 48 hours. Mold colonization can occur in 3 to 12 days and can continue to spread if left unchecked. Mold streaks and moldy odors will start appearing during the colonization cycle meaning visual confirmation means mold is growing and has affected the area. A detailed air quality test and professional mold inspection are the next best steps for handling the problem. Experienced mold removal professionals will offer solutions to remove the mold as well as to prevent further outbreaks.

How dangerous is black mold?

Black mold is a nightmare for homeowners because of its ability to grow almost anywhere in your home. Black mold pollutes your home’s air with bacteria and mold spores which can cause a wide range of mild to severe health problems. Black mold that is undetected or left unrepaired becomes more dangerous as the mold fields continue to spread causing higher levels of air pollution. Continued exposure to heavily polluted air from black mold can cause chronic and possibly terminal health problems in more severe cases. Residential homes are notorious for poor indoor air quality. Keeping an eye out for the symptoms, visual cues and odors of mold is your first step in detecting the presence of the fungus in your home. Higher amounts of black mold can be dangerous when left unchecked and unrepaired.

Can I remove black mold myself?

Once you locate a moldy area in your home, the first step to correct the problem is to identify and repair the source of excess moisture that encourages mold growth. The area should be sealed off as mold releases pollutants into localized air. Working in moldy areas will also require protective safety equipment for skin and appropriately rated masks for breathing. Clearing areas of mold is a two stage process. Firstly, areas are cleaned of surface mold and then stronger commercial quality mold removers are used to disinfect the area completely. All materials and equipment used in your DIY projects must be disposed of safely in sealed bags to ensure no mold spores are left behind. Checklists and planning are critical to the success of your do it yourself mold removal project.

What will kill mold?

Many chemicals that are readily available can do an excellent job of killing mold in your home. Depending on the surface, bleach is an excellent solution for killing mold but should only be used on non-porous surfaces such as glass, marble countertops, bathtubs, shower stalls and porcelain fixtures. Other surfaces such as wood and brick can react harshly to bleach and a deep scrubbing of soap and water is the your most effective method to kill mold on these types of surfaces. Using a stiff bristle brush on porous surfaces is the best way to ensure the deepest penetration and complete disinfection of the area. Once areas are clean and clear of all mold, they should be dried and vacuumed immediately to ensure no further infestations or mold spore residue.

Do mold spores die? 

Mold reproduces itself by releasing microscopic mold spores into the air. These spores travel through the air and can create new mold fields if the moisture conditions are right for development. Mold spores do not die and if not removed properly, can easily attach themselves to damp surfaces and recolonize. When undertaking your own DIY mold removal project, it is important to seal off the area and  use a HEPA filtered vacuum before and after the disinfection process to ensure any remaining spores are collected and contained. Controlling and removing the moisture source will help prevent future outbreaks of mold but the spores can lie dormant until conditions for reproduction become ideal. All mold repair projects begin by identify and repairing the source of excess moisture.

The effects of mold in your home

Mold is a naturally occurring type of fungus that can appear on surfaces where there is excess humidity and poor ventilation. If left unrepaired, the fungus itself can eventually destroy surfaces but the effects of mold in the home is almost immediate. Airborne mold spores and bacteria are released into the home's airstream very soon after mold completes its initial growth stage. These toxic pollutants reduce air quality and can create short and long term health and lifestyle problems for those exposed to moldy air. Breathing in low quality air caused by mold can cause:

  • Mild to severe respiratory infections
  • Shortness of breath and frequent coughing
  • Skin and eye irritation
  • Poor sleep patterns and fatigue during the day
  • Long term chronic breathing problems
  • Longer recovery times from viruses and injuries
  • Emotional problems due to constant fatigue and lack of proper sleep

In addition to being unsightly and visually not appealing, mold has farther reaching effects for health and well being inside your home. If you suspect the presence of mold or are experiencing any unexplainable changes in health or lifestyle, hiring a professional mold inspection crew is your next essential step. Mold that is left unchecked may spread causing more indoor air pollution in your home.

Can you live with mold?

The actual toxicity of most mold species found in homes is debatable. But the health effects of mold are known and even the slightest decrease in air quality can have adverse effects on your own well being. Regular air quality testing is essential to maintain your own desired level of air quality for healthy living.

How much mold exposure is dangerous?

Mold is a naturally occurring fungus and does have an important place within our ecosystem. Mold inside your home is a problem because of the confined and controlled airstream inside the house. Excessive exposure to moldy air can create short and long term health problems and reduce the quality of life for you and those in living in your home. The other major concern is that mold is can grow in the most inaccessible parts of your home and may not be easily detected allowing the mold area to grow and spread creating even more air pollution inside your home. Natural exposure to mold is part of mother nature but mold buildup inside your home can have cause serious effects on your health and wellbeing.

The symptoms of moldmold removal toronto & mississauga

Mold is a tricky fungus and has a preference for growing in the most inaccessible parts of your home. Mold damage does have some tell tale signs that can give aways it's presence. Common black mold will appear as black or greyish smudges or streaks along surfaces. Stale odors in a certain area may also mean the presence of mold. Regular air quality checks are the best way to confirm mold spores in the air.

Trusting the right team for your mold issues

Mold inspection and removal in residential homes is a tricky business. The fungus can take hold and grow in many different areas of the home. Hiring an inspector with extensive residential experience means having someone who understands how mold works itself into different areas and rooms of the home and who also understands what can cause the growth. Detailed visual inspections inside key areas are complemented by air quality tests and reporting that will give you the total picture when it comes to mold. Professional residential mold removal crews will have the latest training, the proper equipment and human safe chemicals to get the removal and damage restoration job done thoroughly and completely to your satisfaction. Once the job is completed, further air quality tests will be performed to confirm removal of the mold. Trusted and reputable mold removal contractors will:

  • Answer all of your questions
  • Relay detailed information from inspections and air quality reports
  • Create solutions for removal and prevention of future mold outbreaks
  • Provide a written estimate
  • Walk you through the various stages of the job until completed
  • Be available for any follow up that is required

When hiring a contractor for mold removal, be sure to ask about certification and training to ensure the latest methods and equipment are used for the job.

Attics can be a haven for mold

The top of your home could be a potential hotspot for mold development. Attics are usually dark and can have excessive humidity due to poor or unmaintained ventilation systems. Wood rafters and frames are typical surfaces that mold can grow on creating a prime breeding ground for the fungus. Bacteria and mold spores from attic mold has a trickle down effect and can dramatically reduce air quality in the lower floors. If left unchecked, mold can eventually destroy wood components and beams in the attic leading to larger and more expensive repairs. Experienced residential mold inspectors in Oakville, Toronto, Mississauga and the GTA will start the home inspection in the attic as most areas are not well maintained. Inspectors will check interior walls, beams and frames for growth as well as checks on venting and air flow which provide needed evaporation for excess humidity and moisture.   

There is a lot of potential for mold in the basement

The basement of any home could have numerous hotspots for mold development. The main reason for increased mold in basements is consistent excess humidity. Most basements are partially or entirely below ground exposing exterior walls to naturally damp soil. This dampness makes its way into the basement and increases humidity and the potential for mold development. Poor or non-functioning insulation and a lack of exterior wrapping around basements allows ground moisture to enter the home easily. Most homes have HVAC equipment located in the basement and equipment such as hot water tanks and furnaces can create surrounding heat which increases humidity in the immediate area. Exposed hot water pipes from tanks will also give off humidity if not properly wrapped or insulated. Even a microscopic water leak in exposed pipes will increase humidity in the basement. Older homes that don't have updated ventilation in furnace rooms are also prone to excess humidity buildup. Seasonal changes can also increase humidity in the basement. Basements are typically cooler than the rest of the home because of its location below ground. During the summer months, hot air from the outside 'crashes’ into the cooler basement air creating condensation on surfaces throughout the basement. The excess wetness turns into humidity and increases the possibility of mold.

It makes sense to frequently check and maintain the humidity in your basement. Hygrometers are an excellent way to gauge and maintain humidity below 50%. Regular air quality checks are also necessary to confirm the presence of mold in addition to visual checks for black smudges, discoloration or paint bubbling. Air quality and mold issues should be taken care of a by a professional who will diagnose the root cause of the mold problem and repair both the existing mold issue and and cause of the moisture leak. With so many potential hotspots for mold in the basement, it makes sense to trust an experienced professional for inspection, removal and restoration of the affected area.

Bathrooms were built for mold buildup

If there is one place in your home which produces the most moisture and humidity, it is the bathroom. The constant use of warm and hot water in a confined space can elevate the humidity to disproportionate levels. Older homes may have been built with windows to allow ventilation while later home designs incorporate an exhaust fan to discharge humid air to the outside. Bathrooms are especially prone to mold development because of all the different surfaces in the bathroom. Mold is a common along shower wall and floor tile grout. Fabric shower curtains are also a prime spot for mold development if not dried out properly. Faucets and fixtures can also have mold on them because of the amount of water and moisture that pases through and around them. Mold can also fester under shower and bath mats which require frequent cleaning or disposal if moldy. Shower stalls and tubs are major hotspots for mold as water combined with body oils provide an abundant breeding ground for the fungus. Heavy mold infestations in bathrooms are cause for concern because of the possible amount of mold sites that can exist. Locating mold in bathrooms can be fairly easy among lighter coloured tiles and fixtures. The smaller space of the bathroom can create a more intense ‘moldy odor’ as well. The usual black mold smears can also appear as dots. Regular use of exhaust fans and moisture and wetness mop ups are necessary to control mold development. An experienced inspector will check bathrooms first for water leaks and and improper venting which could cause excessive humidity buildup.

You spend a good part of the day in the bedroom

We spend a big part of the day sleeping which usually occurs in the bedrooms. The presence of mold where you sleep is very dangerous because you would be exposed to bad quality air for 7 to 12 hours per day. Most bedrooms are closer to the top of the home which can be the most prone to water leakage and moisture buildup. Water stains on ceilings is a strong indicator that there may be mold behind the plaster. Some bedrooms have an ensuite bathroom which can contribute to the mold problem in the bedroom. Condensation on glass windows is a common occurrence during the winter months and can dampen wood window sills and frames creating a haven for mold development. Most bedroom designs utilize carpeting and upholstery to create a comfortable environment but mold can easily take old and grow in fabrics and carpet fibers. Spilling something wet or water damage on a mattress can also lead to mold development. Mattresses that are involved in water damage should be disposed of immediately. Inhaling lower quality air for a large amount of time will lead to changes in health and wellbeing which should be addressed immediately. Hiring a professional mold removal team with residential experience is the best way to ensure any and all mold is removed from your bedroom and the area is restored to a healthy standard. Bedrooms have many points that can sustain mold and a fully trained inspector will know exactly where to look for mold, repair the causes of the fungus and provide detailed air quality tests confirming removal.

Is it safe to sleep in a room with mold?

Mold is one of the top sources of indoor air pollution and could be greatly reducing the air quality in your home. Sleeping in a room that has mold increases your exposure to this low quality air and can have many negative effects on your quality of life and those living in your home. Breathing in moldy air in your bedroom can be detrimental to your sleep patterns and you may experience increased fatigue from poor sleep. Irregular sleep can also affect other aspects of your health including increasing recovery times from viruses and infections as well as creating possible short and long term respiratory problems.

Is all mold toxic?

Mold is an organism that occurs and reproduces naturally and provides necessary functions in cross pollination in nature. Exposure to mold in nature has little effect on humans except for those with hypersensitive allergy conditions and are not considered toxic. Certain types of mold that develop in residential properties are considered toxic and any species of mold in your home that is left unchecked will have toxic effects on the health of safety of those living in your home.

Mold in all its forms

There are many types of mold that can develop throughout the property. Different areas and surfaces can provide prime breeding grounds for various species of the fungus and all are detrimental to the quality of life of the inhabitants. 

  • Alternaria thrives is areas with excess humidity such as showers and under sinks. Areas with flood or major water damage are prone to the Alternaria strain of mold as well. Allergic symptoms and asthma are common effects of this mold.
  • Aspergillus grows indoors and has more serious health effects. In addition to allergic reactions and respiratory infections, this strain of mold can cause severe inflammation of the lungs.
  • Aureobasidium is the more common strain that appears in black or pink smears. Wood and painted surfaces are prime surfaces which means this strain can thrive indoors and out. Most people suffer allergic reactions from this type of mold.
  • Improper ventilation in high humid areas such as bathrooms and laundry rooms may see the Botryis strain of mold. This type also creates respiratory problems like asthma.
  • Water damaged drywall and carpets as well as excessive condensation buildup on window frames can be prime areas for the Chaetomium type of mold. This strain has a familiar musty odor to it and will cause air quality issues.
  • While most types of mold thrive in warmer temperatures, the Cladosporium strain can easily take hold and fester in cooler spaces inside the home. Its airborne spores decrease the quality of the air inside and contribute to a wide range of respiratory problems.
  • Fusarium is another strain of mold that can grow in cooler temps and appear in water damaged carpeting and fabrics. Along with usual list of breathing problems, those with low immune systems may be vulnerable to infection when exposed Fusarium mold.
  • Blue or green colored mold is indication of the Penicillium strain of the fungus. Penicillium can find a ideal areas in most places including mattresses and furnishings and can quickly spread throughout the home. Chronic sinus infections and inflamed lungs are symptoms of this type of mold.
  • The slimy appearance of Stachybotrys chartarum gives it the ‘toxic mold’ nickname but it is the offsetting compounds that are actually hazardous. This mold can generally affect the quality of living inside the home and cause chronic conditions such as respiratory illness, fatigue and even depression. ‘Toxic mold’ can be found in areas with constant excess humidity.
  • Dry rot in wood is caused by mold known as Serpula lacrymans, or yellow mold.
  • Similar in characteristics to ‘toxic mold’, Trichoderma grows on damp surfaces such as carpets and wallpaper. It also produces toxic spores causing many respiratory conditions. Many people are allergic to Trichoderma itself and experience severe allergic reactions.
  • Homes and properties that have gone through major flooding and extensive water damage may have the Ulocladium strain of mold present. This species thrives in wet areas where moisture is visually present. Allergy sufferers may experience enhanced symptoms when Ulocladium is in the vicinity. 

Rely on certified professionals for mold testing and removalMold Removal Toronto

The presence of mold at a property has serious effects and detecting and removing it must be handled by professionals who follow strict international standards set out by IICRC and Interachi. Experts, such as Inch by Inch, understand GTA properties and will complete thorough mold testing in Toronto and offer the most effective solutions for removing the nasty fungus from the property.

Inch by Inch are the experts for mold testing in Toronto

Property owners who suspect mold at their location must take the problem seriously as the fungus can have detrimental effects on the property and the people inside. Inch by Inch are the mold testing experts in Toronto and can test, detect and remove the dangerous organism effectively and completely using the latest mold testing tools and environmentally friendly cleaners. Inch by Inch can confirm the quality of the air through air sample testing after any mold removal project. 

For more information about Mold Inspection and Mold Remediation, call  us today or contact us today! We are an InterNACHI certified mold removal & mold remediation company serving Toronto, Mississauga, Vaughan, Oakville, Brampton, Burlington and surrounding areas in the GTA.

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What Our Clients Say About Us

Hiring a construction contractor to renovate my house for the first time, I was not familiar with any of the DSS-related requirements.  So, it was quite reassuring to find someone like Tony who is trustworthy and knowledgeable. I also needed a quick turnaround for the completed DSS report and Tony delivered (on time, as promised).  In short, Tony was great to deal with. I would recommend him to anyone, anytime.   

Richard, Toronto

Tony did an excellent job with inspecting the house. He was very knowledgable in his field and thorough with his inspection. He carefully and patiently looked at both the exterior and interior of the building. He pointed out the deficiencies, what the risks are and how to rectify them. He answered all of our questions and made sure that we understood them. He offered his expertise and help if we needed.

Mandan, Toronto

I have heard a lot of stories about home inspection but I could honestly say that I had a great experience. I would like to thank Tony from Inch by Inch Home Inspection for the great experience. A couple of weeks ago I had the pleasure of meeting Tony through my realtor. I want to thank Tony for taking the time to answer any questions and any concerns I had about my home inspection.

Teresa, Toronto

Tony Muscat of Inch by Inch Inspections is extremely professional, caring and a prompt individual, when he heard we may have a mold problem he came immediately. Tony was worried with the level of mold that was contained in this recent purchased older home and he walked me through the process of getting rid of the mold and what dangers were involved. He paid the best attention to us, while we went through this horrible ordeal. The fact that impressed me the most was his vast amount of knowledge, and the dangers of each mould which there are many. He is extremely professional and equipped to handle any job. I would recommend Inch by Inch, (Tony) to anyone he is a concerned and serious individual, that cares about your family!!!!!!!

Debra, Toronto

If it wasn't for Joe from Inch by Inch Healthy Homes coming into test the quality of the air in 3 condo's in our building we would have never known it was a gas leak from an outside BBQ which had been an ongoing problem for close to four years!!!!!!(the gas smell was going into the fresh air intake and then spreading through the 3 condo's!!!  Thank You!

Peggy, Toronto

We called Inch By Inch Inspections as we needed the mold removed from our attic to complete the sale of our property. They were very professional and did a great job! Thank you Tony and Team!

Andrew, Vaughan

Tony and Joe were really knowledgeable and great to work with! They explained everything thoroughly and were very responsive to questions. Thank you!

Angela, Burlington

I contacted this company to do an air quality test after we had asbestos wrapping removed from our basement. They were the most reasonably priced. The young man came the same day and was very thorough about the entire process. I appreciate that Tony was able to get my results sooner than the previously date we originally agreed on.

Iman, Mississauga

Tony came to my home to help me inspect the potential root causes of some water damage in my home. Through his vast knowledge and the use of the latest technology, he was able to help me understand what led to the damage and how to better prevent it in the future.

Giuseppe, Vaughan

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