MTS#1 How to Collect a Visible Mold Sample (Tape or Bulk)

Why Test for Visible Mold? Tests are useful to (1) determine if mold is PRESENT; (2) determine the TYPE of mold and;
(3) provide documentation. In some cases, spotting is actually dirt, black rust stains, candle soot, mineral deposit
(efflorescence), etc. and not mold Testing can determine the TYPE of mold. Some molds are considered more harmful
than others. Testing can also sometimes tell if ACTIVE mold growth is occurring. In many cases, DOCUMENTATION (lab
analysis) is important to provide proof (evidence) that visible mold is present (or not present). It helps to back up the mold
tests with photos (both close-ups and several feet away mark tests areas).
What Does Visible Mold Mean? Mold is evidence of DAMPNESS. Mold growth requires damp conditions (usually 80100% humidity on a surface). Damp rooms are associated with increased health problems. Visible mold does NOT always
indicate recent dampness. In many cases, a wall became wet in the past and mold grew. The wall then dried out but the
mold remained. Mold only indicates that dampness has occurred at some time. However, testing can sometimes show
ACTIVE growth is occurring (meaning recent dampness). Moisture meters can also be used to determine recent
dampness (as well as being damp to the touch).
Are Some Molds Worse? Yes. But, large amounts of ANY type of mold in an occupied building is considered
unacceptable. Some common molds, such as Cladiosporium, are often considered less of a concern than more toxic
molds such as Aspergillus, Chaetomium, Penicillium or Stachybotrys. Certain types of mold also indicate especially damp
or wet conditions such as Acremomium, Chaetomium and Stachybotrys.
Is Mold Worse on Some Materials? Yes. Mold is more difficult to remove on porous materials such as sheetrock,
particle boards, stuffed furniture, etc. In a basement, wood and concrete can often be cleaned off while moldy sheetrock
(and the fiberglass insulation behind it) usually have to be removed. See MTS handout #2 on mold removal and cleaning.
When is Visible Mold a Health Risk? As a rule of thumb, the presence of ANY visible mold in an occupied building is
considered unacceptable. However, small amounts of visible mold often occur in many buildings and do not necessarily
pose a health risk. For example, slight visible mold on window sills or on bathroom tile often does not pose a serious
concern. The NY City Health Dept considers <10 ft2 as small (see their web page). Where large amounts of visible mold
are covering walls (many square feet), a definite health concern exists (regardless of the type of mold).
Visible Mold Tests Are Limited. A tape sample of visible mold is INSUFFICIENT to provide an assessment of concerns
or health risks. For this, a site visit and AIRBORNE mold tests are required.
Collecting Visible Mold. Only a SMALL sample (thumb-nail size) is required for lab analysis. TAPE tests can be taken
using clear scotch tape and taking a one inch sample. Before taking the sample, fold inch edge over to make a tab so
you can hold the tape without sticking to it. Press the tape lightly against the surface. Different colored or patterned mold
typically require separate tapes. USE ONLY CLEAR SCOTCH TAPE. Do NOT use frosted tape or heavy duty clear
packing tape. DO NOT fold the tape over against itself. Press the sticky side of the tape against the inside of a small
ziplock bag (or against foil inside a paper envelope). For BULK samples, use a knife or scissors to collect a small thumbnailed sized sample to be bagged. Whenever possible, it is very helpful to take digital PHOTOS while collecting the
samples. These can be e-mailed or included with the samples. It helps to label the sample area with a written note on the
wall (paper, masking tape etc) being sampled such as test#1, N wall basement, 3-4-10.
Chain of Custody (COC). Each sample bag MUST include information as to who took the sample, the date sampled,
type material and where taken. Ex: John Smith, N wall basement, sheetrock. Contact information including name. phone
number, e-mail, mailing address must be included. We can provide COC forms.
Sample Submittal. Mail or hand deliver the sample to Mold Testing Services, LLC, 2900 S. Phillips Ave., Suite 700,
Sioux Falls, SD 57105. Phone 605-951-4857. E-mail: moldymike@moldtestingsd.com. Payment MUST be included
($37.10/test includes tax). Call ahead if you want to drop off a sample. We accept cash, check and major credit cards.
For non-debit cards, there is an additional $0.70 fee. All samples must be in a sealed container and must include contact
and sampling information. We can provide a chain of custody form. Microphotographs available at additional charge.
Typical analysis time is 2-4 days. RUSH requests (<48 Hrs) cost 70% extra (MTS handout#1, 5-27-10)