Mold hides in plain sight. Some people aren’t even aware of its existence until there are notable signs, like dark spots spreading out all over the drywall. Unfortunately, by the time the colony reaches this point, it’s likely thriving on the backside of the wall and has been for weeks or even months.
Hidden mold behind walls is a genuine and valid concern for property owners in the southeast of the country. High humidity and heavy rainfall create the perfect conditions for mold to be a major issue if you aren’t careful.
Since you can’t tear down your drywall to check if you’re dealing with mold, what choices do you have? Take a look at the best non-invasive techniques to help uncover hidden mold growth.
The Smell Test
While it’s nothing official, the nose knows; it’s your most basic sensor, and it’s more effective than you realize at detecting mold’s distinct “musty” odor. If a room has this smell but there isn’t visible mold, there’s a good chance it’s hiding behind the wall or in the ductwork.
However, this doesn’t confirm anything, nor does it pinpoint the location of the colony. You won’t get much scientific clarity out of a quick whiff, even if it’s useful as a baseline. That’s where technology (and an appointment with a mold remediation professional) comes in.
Thermal Imaging
Thermal imaging cameras are excellent for finding mold behind walls. It doesn’t “see” it, exactly, but it sees temperature differences, which could indicate mold.
Any dark blue patches would mean it’s cooler in that spot. If the temperature of the wall should be uniform, this usually means there’s a moisture pocket. And if there isn’t mold there now, it’s only a matter of time.
Unlike the smell test, this isn’t something you can likely do yourself. It’s more of a standard in the mold inspection process, and it’s equipment that any mold remediation specialist will have and know how to read.
Moisture Meters
The next goal should be to confirm that the dark blue spot and smell actually mean there’s something wet behind the wall.
Mold inspectors will use either pinless or pin meters. Pinless meters are the less invasive option, scanning a large area of the wall without damaging it. Pin meters technically “damage” the wall, but it’s just two small pinpricks. It’s often worth going this route, since it can provide a more accurate reading of the moisture content.
Air Quality Testing
Mold can sometimes still be a problem even without obvious trapped moisture. Air quality testing is the next logical step, especially if the remediation expert isn’t finding the right information with other tools but still suspects mold growth.
These tests involve trapping microscopic mold particles floating in the air. The technician will compare the air sample to an outdoor control sample. If they find high amounts of spores or types of spores not typically found outside, that’s enough to suggest there’s mold somewhere behind your walls.
Borescopes
Borescopes aren’t fully non-invasive. Yet, if other methods aren’t giving you enough confirmation or if you want to see the mold for yourself, they’re available. Using a borescope involves drilling a small hole into the drywall, usually somewhere that’s easy to hide after the inspection. The technician sends through a fiber optic camera to visually inspect the area behind your wall.
While the other options work well because they’re highly effective and non-invasive, many commercial building owners don’t mind using borescopes because it’s the least intrusive way to get the most compelling evidence.
Why Professional Detection Matters
DIY mold test kits are available, and commercial property owners might find them a tempting option to take matters into their own hands. However, they’re nowhere near as reliable as thorough testing using specialty equipment. They also don’t provide any context, so it’s rarely clear what your next steps are, even if the readings are accurate.
Professional detection is about evaluating the situation using all the tools at the specialist’s disposal. They’ll combine moisture readings with thermal imaging and air sample data to paint an accurate picture of the potential for mold hiding behind your walls.
Calling for a commercial mold inspection that uses non-invasive methods like these is an ideal way to save yourself thousands of dollars in renovations and structural repair. The best thing you can do for your building is to call in a professional if you suspect mold and get a clear, unambiguous answer about what to do next.
A mold remediation company can confirm the presence of mold and pinpoint its exact location. This makes it easier to confine mold remediation to affected areas, so you can restore your commercial building’s normal routine. Contact our mold remediation specialists for the expert help your commercial property needs.
