Tel: 1-800-722-5589
email: rtsenviro@comcast.net

Inspection Tools and Technology

Mold and Bacteria can reproduce only if there is enough moisture in the environment to support the transfer of nutrients or cell growth. Without moisture, mold, mildew and bacteria will become inactive, or die.

Moisture is the key to better understanding mold problems. The tools used during an inspection are meant to detect moisture content in or behind building materials. A moisture meter can give us an instant measurement of moisture content (as a percentage) in whatever material we wish to test. Materials such as wallboard usually measure 8% to 15% when dry. If moisture levels are above 20% or worse yet above 50% we know mold can begin to grow. Woods, paper, drywall, furniture, and building components all have characteristic moisture levels when dry.

Other tools which come in handy during an inspection:

1. Laser Thermometers - point a laser at any surface and it well tell you the temperature of that surface
2. Moisture meter - indicates for moisture levels in or behind surfaces such as tile or flooring.
3. Hygrometer - Indicates for relative humidity. When relative humidity is sustained above 60% or worse 70%, mold and mildew will begin to grow.
4. Fiber optic scope - allows for viewing within wall cavities or areas difficult to inspect.
5. High intensity lighting - Used to see mold growth that would otherwise be unnoticed
6. Infrared Thermal Camera - a new technology which distinguishes between small thermal variations and can see moisture and thermal differences in materials due to heat loss, gain, or moisture content.

RTS uses many of these tools to help us discover mold and moisture problems during an inspection.

Contact or call RTS Environmental to schedule an inspection:
1-800-722-5589
rtsenviro@comcast.net

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