Types of Mold Testing: Part 4 – Wall Cavity Testing

Posted on by msi-admin

Not all mold problems grow in plain sight. Some of the most damaging infestations hide inside walls, under floors, or behind cabinets. These hidden areas stay damp long after a leak or flood, creating perfect conditions for mold growth. That’s why inspectors often use inner-wall cavity testing to confirm whether mold is present where you can’t see it.

How Cavity Testing Works

  • A trained inspector drills a small, discreet hole into the wall or ceiling near the suspected area.
  • A sterile tube or cassette is inserted to pull an air sample from inside the cavity.
  • The sample is sent to a certified laboratory, where spore counts are compared to baseline indoor and outdoor levels.

This process gives a direct look at what’s happening behind the surface — without having to tear down entire sections of drywall.

When It’s Used

  • Insurance Claim Disputes: Homeowners are often told “no visible damage, no problem.” Cavity testing can prove hidden mold exists and help validate claims.
  • Follow-Up to Positive Tests: If a surface or air sample in the room already showed elevated spores, cavity testing helps confirm whether mold is also thriving behind the walls.
  • Suspected Leaks: When there’s a history of plumbing issues, roof leaks, or water intrusion but no obvious staining, cavity testing can identify hidden moisture damage.
  • Mystery Odors: A persistent musty smell is often the first clue that mold is active behind finished surfaces.

Why It Matters

Mold hidden inside walls can spread unchecked for months, making remediation more invasive and expensive. By detecting the problem early, inner-wall cavity testing provides homeowners with clear answers — and the documentation they need when dealing with insurance companies, landlords, or contractors.

Protect Your Property with Expert Mold Testing

If you suspect hidden mold in your home or business, don’t wait for the damage to spread. At MSI, we use industry-standard testing methods, including cavity sampling, to uncover mold where it hides and provide you with a clear plan for remediation.

Cladosporium: What Homeowners Need to Know About This Indoor Invader

Posted on by msi-admin

What Is Cladosporium? Pronounced: clad-oh-SPORE-ee-um Cladosporium is a dark green to black mold made up of clusters of spores that thrive in both warm and cool environments. Unlike many molds that prefer warmth, Cladosporium can grow in refrigerators, on cold basement walls, and inside HVAC systems.

It often looks like soot, dirt, or dust and may be mistaken for simple grime—especially on window sills, vents, and painted walls. But don’t let the subtle appearance fool you.

Where Cladosporium Is Commonly Found

You’ll typically see this mold in:

  • Window sills and wood trim around windows
  • HVAC vents and ductwork
  • Closets, especially those with poor airflow
  • Fabric furniture and carpets
  • Bathrooms, especially behind toilets or under sinks
  • Basement walls, especially concrete or drywall exposed to moisture

Cladosporium grows quickly in areas with condensation, high humidity, or poor ventilation—making it a common sight in homes with water issues or older, leaky windows.

Is Cladosporium Dangerous?

While Cladosporium isn’t classified as a toxic mold, it can still be harmful—especially for people with allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems. Common symptoms include:

  • Nasal congestion or sneezing
  • Coughing or wheezing
  • Itchy, watery eyes
  • Skin irritation or rashes
  • Exacerbation of asthma or respiratory issues

Long-term exposure can worsen these symptoms, particularly in homes where Cladosporium is present in ventilation systems, allowing spores to circulate throughout the air.

Why DIY Cleaning Often Fails

Many homeowners try to wipe away what looks like dirt—only for the mold to return within days or weeks. That’s because:

  • Surface cleaning doesn’t kill the root of the mold, especially if it has penetrated drywall or wood.
  • Porous materials like insulation, carpeting, and wallpaper can trap spores beneath the surface.
  • HVAC systems can recirculate spores, spreading the problem throughout your home.

Without professional remediation and moisture control, Cladosporium keeps coming back.

How MSI Can Help

At MSI, we’ve performed thousands of mold inspections and remediations projects since 1998. Our process includes:

  • Detailed mold testing to confirm the species and spore count
  • Source tracking to find moisture or ventilation problems
  • Safe removal using HEPA filtration and containment
  • Post-remediation testing to ensure the issue is fully resolved

We don’t just clean—we eliminate the conditions that allow mold to thrive.

Don’t Let Cladosporium Linger in Your Home

What looks like a little dirt or dust might be something far more serious. Cladosporium mold is one of the most overlooked causes of poor indoor air quality, especially in homes with older windows, musty basements, or recurring moisture. If you’ve noticed dark spots on vents, sills, or walls, it’s time to get it checked. MSI has the tools, experience, and knowledge to identify the mold and remove it safely. Call today and let us help you restore a cleaner, healthier home.