Question 1

Is mold common in Pacific Northwest homes?

Accepted Answer

Yes, mold is very common in Western Washington homes. The combination of heavy annual rainfall (35-50 inches in the Stanwood area), high humidity, mild temperatures, and older construction methods creates ideal conditions for mold growth. Common problem areas include crawlspaces, behind bathroom walls, around windows, in attics with inadequate ventilation, and anywhere that has experienced water damage or leaks. Even well-maintained homes can develop mold problems if moisture conditions aren't properly managed.

Question 2

What's the difference between air sampling and surface sampling for mold?

Accepted Answer

Air sampling measures the concentration of airborne mold spores in your indoor environment, comparing indoor levels to outdoor baseline readings. Elevated indoor spore counts relative to outdoor levels indicate an active indoor mold source. Surface sampling (tape lifts, swabs, or bulk samples) identifies the specific mold species growing on building materials. Both methods provide valuable information—air sampling tells you about overall air quality, while surface sampling identifies exactly what's growing and where. We often recommend both for a complete assessment.

Question 3

What should I do if I see mold growing in my home?

Accepted Answer

If you see visible mold growth, avoid disturbing it—scrubbing or applying household cleaners without containment can release spores and spread contamination. For small areas (less than about 10 square feet on non-porous surfaces), the EPA considers homeowner cleanup acceptable using proper precautions. For larger areas, growth on porous materials like drywall, or any situation where you're unsure of the extent, professional testing and remediation is recommended. Contact Absolute Asbestos at (425) 923-6994 for an assessment.

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