Episode #51: Testing Your Home for Mold with Bill Weber

Does choosing between home mold testing options make you want to throw in your microfiber towel? Have no fear—Bill Weber is here to help you clear the air!

Bill breaks down the pros and cons of gravity plates, air sampling, surface sampling, ERMI, HERTSMI-2, cultural dust sampling, and PRV testing. You’ll discover which tests are best suited for your mold testing toolbox, and how to use the right test, in the right way, at the right time.

This episode is full of relevant information, so be sure to tune in to this go-to guide for navigating the world of mold testing.

Episode Highlights:

• Does a mold-free home exist, and what is “normal fungal ecology”? (3:53)
• How do we determine which thresholds for various molds are problematic, and which are not? (8:11)
• What are some of the drawbacks of air testing? (11:59)
• Can mold in closed-off spaces within your home impact your living space? (14:00)
• How can theatrical smoke help you to identify air penetrations inside your home? (17:51)
• How can living in multi-family housing affect your indoor air quality? (20:52)
• What are the benefits and drawbacks of air testing? (22:42)
• Why is it important to choose the right laboratory for air testing? (28:31)
• Is it helpful to disturb the air when conducting an air sample? (32:26)
• Are tape lift methods helpful to identify mold? (34:21)
• Are PCR tests such as the ERMI and HERTSMI-2 helpful?  What mistakes can be made, and how should samples be collected for accurate results? (35:58) 
• What do gravity plates have to do with Candida? (48:56)
• What is culturable dust testing, and why is it a valuable tool?  (50:53)
• Why is post-remediation verification (PRV) with an IEP important, and what are some helpful tips to ensure the job was successful? (55:19)
• Where should you start if you suspect mold is in your home? (1:05:26)

Links mentioned in interview:

Start Here tab: https://changetheairfoundation.org/mold-water-damage/

Get in touch with our guest:

Avelar Website: www.avelar.net

Learn more about Change the Air Foundation:

https://www.changetheairfoundation.org

Sign up for our newsletter:

https://changetheairfoundation.org/stay-informed/

Disclaimer: Your Indoor Air Podcast, a Change the Air Foundation production, is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, healthcare or other professional services, such as giving healthcare advice. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care.  Users should not disregard or delay in seeking medical attention for any medical condition or concern they may have.