PROFESSIONAL ATTIC
MOLD INSPECTION & TESTING
Protect Your Home from Hidden Attic Mold Damage
Thermal imaging • Moisture mapping • Ventilation assessment • Roof leak detection • Ice dam inspection
WARNING SIGNS OF ATTIC MOLD
Don't wait until it's too late. These signs indicate you need professional attic mold inspection:
- 🚨 Musty odor in upper floors or throughout home
- 🚨 Visible dark spots or discoloration on roof sheathing
- 🚨 Water stains on ceiling or in attic
- 🚨 Ice dams forming on roof edges in winter
- 🚨 Condensation or frost in attic
- 🚨 Recent roof leak or storm damage
- 🚨 Poor attic ventilation or blocked vents
- 🚨 Insulation appears wet or compressed
- 🚨 Peeling paint or wallpaper on upper floor ceilings
- 🚨 Historic St. Louis home (pre-1970 construction)
- 🚨 Unexplained allergy or respiratory symptoms
- 🚨 High energy bills (may indicate insulation problems)
WHY ATTIC MOLD IS DANGEROUS
Mold rots roof sheathing, rafters, and trusses. Left untreated, it can compromise your entire roof structure, costing $15,000-$30,000+ to repair.
The Stack Effect pulls attic air into living spaces. Mold spores from your attic are being breathed by your family every day.
Wet insulation loses R-value. Moisture-damaged insulation can reduce energy efficiency by 50%, increasing heating and cooling costs.
Common attic molds (Aspergillus, Penicillium, Stachybotrys) cause allergies, asthma, respiratory issues, and chronic sinus infections.
WHY ST. LOUIS ATTICS ARE AT HIGH RISK
Our unique climate and historic housing create the perfect storm for attic mold growth
ICE DAMS & FREEZE-THAW CYCLES
St. Louis winters create ice dams when warm attics melt snow, which refreezes at roof edges. Water backs up under shingles and leaks into attics, creating ideal mold conditions.
HIGH HUMIDITY SUMMERS
St. Louis summer humidity averages 70-80%. Without proper ventilation, attics trap this moisture, causing condensation on roof sheathing and rafters.
HISTORIC HOME VENTILATION ISSUES
Pre-1970s St. Louis homes often have inadequate attic ventilation. Insulation was added in the 1970s before continuous ridge and soffit vents were common, trapping moisture.
SEVERE WEATHER & ROOF DAMAGE
St. Louis faces frequent severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hail. Roof damage from wind and storms creates entry points for water, leading to rapid mold growth.
RIVER PROXIMITY HUMIDITY
Mississippi and Missouri river evaporation contributes directly to elevated regional humidity, especially in warmer months, increasing moisture in poorly ventilated attics.
HVAC & EXHAUST ISSUES
Bathrooms, kitchens, and dryer vents exhausting into attics (common in older homes) introduce massive amounts of moisture. Combined with poor ventilation, this causes widespread mold.
COMPREHENSIVE ATTIC MOLD INSPECTION SERVICES
Advanced technology and expert analysis to find mold others miss
COMPLETE VISUAL INSPECTION
Thorough examination of your entire attic space:
- Roof sheathing (plywood/OSB decking) inspection
- Rafters, trusses, and structural beams
- Insulation condition and moisture levels
- Ventilation system assessment (ridge vents, soffit vents, gable vents)
- Exhaust fan routing (bathroom, kitchen, dryer)
- HVAC ductwork and condensation points
- Chimney flashing and penetration points
- Evidence of past or current leaks
THERMAL IMAGING SCAN
Advanced infrared technology reveals hidden moisture:
- Non-invasive detection of wet areas behind surfaces
- Identifies active leaks and moisture intrusion points
- Locates insulation gaps and ventilation problems
- Creates visual heat map of temperature differences
- Spots condensation areas not visible to naked eye
- Documents problem areas with thermal images
- Faster and safer than traditional moisture probing
MOISTURE MAPPING & DETECTION
Precise moisture measurement throughout attic:
- Moisture meter readings on wood surfaces
- Humidity level measurements
- Identification of moisture sources (roof leaks, condensation, ice dams)
- Ventilation airflow assessment
- Documentation of moisture patterns
- Comparison to safe moisture levels
AIR QUALITY SAMPLING
Laboratory analysis of airborne mold spores:
- Attic air sampling for spore count
- Outdoor control sample for comparison
- Species identification (Aspergillus, Penicillium, Stachybotrys, Cladosporium)
- Concentration level analysis
- AIHA-accredited lab testing
- Detection of hidden mold sources
SURFACE & BULK SAMPLING
Direct testing of suspected mold growth:
- Tape lift samples from visible mold on rafters/sheathing
- Swab samples from discolored areas
- Bulk material testing (insulation, wood) when needed
- Species confirmation and toxicity assessment
- Documentation of contamination severity
DETAILED REPORT & ACTION PLAN
Comprehensive documentation you can use:
- Complete findings with thermal and photo documentation
- Laboratory test results and mold species identified
- Moisture source identification
- Health risk assessment
- Remediation recommendations (cleaning vs. replacement)
- Ventilation improvement suggestions
- Estimated remediation costs
- Prevention strategies to avoid future issues
COMMON MOLD SPECIES FOUND IN ST. LOUIS ATTICS
Different molds require different remediation approaches - professional identification is critical
ASPERGILLUS
Why it's common: Highly adaptable, thrives in poorly ventilated attics with trapped moisture. Grows on wooden surfaces (rafters, sheathing).
Health impact: Allergic reactions, respiratory issues, can cause aspergillosis in immunocompromised individuals.
STACHYBOTRYS (BLACK MOLD)
Why it's common: Appears after primary colonizers on water-damaged materials. Requires continuous moisture for 2+ weeks to grow.
Health impact: Produces mycotoxins. Can cause serious respiratory issues, chronic sinus infections, fatigue, and neurological symptoms.
PENICILLIUM
Why it's common: Part of the #1 toxic mold group. Spreads quickly in damp conditions. Common after roof leaks and ice dam damage.
Health impact: Allergies, asthma exacerbation, sinus infections. Some species produce mycotoxins.
CLADOSPORIUM
Why it's common: Can grow in both warm and cold conditions. Thrives on wood surfaces in attics with temperature fluctuations.
Health impact: Respiratory symptoms, allergic reactions, skin irritation. Generally less toxic than black mold but still problematic.
WHAT ST. LOUIS HOMEOWNERS SAY
"After a bad ice dam this winter, I noticed a musty smell upstairs. They found extensive mold on the roof sheathing using thermal imaging - I never would have seen it myself. The detailed report helped us understand exactly what needed to be fixed. Roof repair + mold remediation cost $8,000 but could have been $25,000+ if we'd waited."
"Our 1950s brick home in Clayton had terrible attic ventilation. They identified the problem, tested for mold (found Aspergillus and Penicillium), and gave us a clear action plan. The inspection paid for itself - we avoided a $15,000 roof replacement by catching it early."
"Professional, thorough, and knowledgeable. They explained the Stack Effect and how mold in my attic was making my kids sick. The thermal imaging was fascinating - you could see exactly where moisture was getting in. Fast results, detailed report, and they even recommended a good remediation company."
ATTIC MOLD INSPECTION PRICING
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Protect your home's structure and your family's health.
STANDARD
Essential Attic Inspection
- ✓ Complete visual attic inspection
- ✓ 2 air quality samples
- ✓ Moisture meter readings
- ✓ Ventilation assessment
- ✓ Basic written report with photos
- ✓ Lab analysis included
- ✗ Thermal imaging
- ✗ Surface sampling
- ✗ Detailed remediation plan
Best for: Routine checks, newer homes, minor concerns
SELECT STANDARDCOMPLETE
Comprehensive Attic Analysis
- ✓ Comprehensive visual inspection
- ✓ Thermal imaging scan
- ✓ 4 air quality samples
- ✓ Advanced moisture mapping
- ✓ 2 surface samples
- ✓ Full lab analysis
- ✓ Detailed photo report
- ✓ Ventilation improvement recommendations
- ✓ Remediation cost estimates
- ✓ Follow-up consultation
Best for: Suspected issues, ice dam damage, older homes
SELECT COMPLETE✓ 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
PREMIUM
Maximum Protection
- ✓ Everything in Complete, plus:
- ✓ 6+ air quality samples
- ✓ Unlimited surface sampling
- ✓ Extended thermal imaging scan
- ✓ HVAC system inspection
- ✓ Insulation R-value assessment
- ✓ Energy efficiency recommendations
- ✓ Priority scheduling
- ✓ Post-remediation clearance test (50% off)
Best for: Severe damage, structural concerns, historic homes
SELECT PREMIUMAll packages include: Certified technician, AIHA-accredited lab analysis, same-week scheduling, detailed findings report, and expert recommendations.
Add-ons available: Rush report (+$150), weekend inspection (+$100), additional sampling points ($75 each)
ATTIC MOLD INSPECTION FAQS
How do I know if I have mold in my attic?
Common signs include musty odors, visible dark spots on wood, water stains, condensation or frost in winter, poor ventilation, and recent roof leaks. However, 85% of attic mold is hidden - professional testing with thermal imaging is the only way to be certain.
Can I inspect my attic for mold myself?
You can perform a basic visual inspection, but you'll miss hidden mold inside insulation, behind sheathing, and in areas not visible to the naked eye. Thermal imaging and air sampling (which require professional equipment) are essential for accurate detection.
What causes mold in St. Louis attics?
Primary causes: roof leaks, ice dams from freeze-thaw cycles, poor ventilation (common in pre-1970 homes), high summer humidity (70-80%), bathroom/kitchen exhaust venting into attic, and HVAC condensation issues.
Is black mold common in attics?
Yes - Stachybotrys (black mold) is found in 16% of attic air samples. It grows on water-damaged wood after continuous moisture exposure (2+ weeks). It's toxic and requires professional remediation - never attempt DIY removal.
How long does attic mold inspection take?
Most attic inspections take 1-2 hours depending on attic size and accessibility. Thermal imaging and moisture mapping add minimal time. Lab results are ready in 24-48 hours.
Do I need to be home during the inspection?
It's helpful but not required. If present, we can show you findings in real-time. If you can't be there, we'll document everything with photos and thermal images and discuss results by phone.
What's the difference between cleaning and replacing moldy materials?
Our report specifies which materials can be cleaned (surface mold on solid wood) vs. replaced (mold inside insulation, severely rotted wood). Generally, insulation must be discarded, while structural wood can often be treated if caught early.
How much does attic mold remediation cost?
Costs vary widely: $1,500-$5,000 for minor mold on rafters; $5,000-$15,000 for extensive sheathing replacement; $15,000-$30,000+ for structural damage requiring roof tear-off. Early detection saves thousands.
Will my insurance cover attic mold testing?
If mold results from a covered event (recent storm damage, sudden roof leak), testing may be covered. Mold from long-term neglect typically isn't covered. We provide detailed invoices for insurance submission.
Can attic mold make me sick even if I never go in the attic?
Absolutely. The Stack Effect pulls attic air into your living space. Mold spores circulate through your entire home via HVAC systems and natural airflow, causing respiratory issues, allergies, and sinus infections.
How do you prevent attic mold after remediation?
Key prevention: fix moisture source (repair roof leaks, improve ventilation, add ridge/soffit vents, reroute exhaust fans outside, improve insulation). Our report includes specific recommendations for your attic's issues.
Do older St. Louis homes have more attic mold problems?
Yes - pre-1970 homes often have inadequate ventilation. Many had insulation added in the 1970s before continuous ridge and soffit vents were standard, trapping moisture. Historic homes require special ventilation solutions.
OUR ATTIC MOLD INSPECTION PROCESS
SCHEDULE INSPECTION
Call or book online. We'll ask about your concerns (leaks, odors, ice dams) and schedule a convenient time.
THERMAL IMAGING SCAN
We start with infrared camera to identify moisture and temperature differences revealing hidden problems.
COMPREHENSIVE INSPECTION
Visual examination of sheathing, rafters, insulation, ventilation system, and all potential moisture sources.
SAMPLE COLLECTION
Air samples and surface samples sent to AIHA-accredited lab for mold species identification.
LAB ANALYSIS
Professional laboratory analyzes samples for mold type, spore count, and contamination severity.
DETAILED REPORT
Receive comprehensive report (24-48 hours) with findings, thermal images, lab results, and remediation plan.
ATTIC MOLD INSPECTION THROUGHOUT ST. LOUIS
Expert attic testing for every St. Louis neighborhood. We know the challenges of historic homes, ice dam-prone areas, and ventilation issues specific to Missouri's climate.
Clayton
High-rise buildings and condominiums with top-floor units. Expert roof leak and HVAC condensation testing.
Clayton Testing →Webster Groves
Historic homes with complex roof lines. Specialized inspection for attic ventilation and ice dam issues.
Webster Groves Testing →Ladue
Large estates with extensive attic spaces. Comprehensive thermal imaging for luxury properties.
Ladue Testing →Central West End
Historic multi-story homes with complex attic systems. Expert analysis of vintage ventilation.
CWE Testing →Chesterfield
Modern construction with sealed attics. Testing for builder defects and inadequate ventilation.
Chesterfield Testing →The Hill
Historic brick homes built pre-1960. Expert evaluation of older attic ventilation systems and roof leaks.
The Hill Testing →Soulard
Historic row houses near the river. Specialized moisture testing for high-humidity attic environments.
Soulard Testing →University City
Diverse architecture from bungalows to modern homes. Attic testing adapted to various roof styles.
U City Testing →Creve Coeur
Established neighborhoods with mature trees. Testing for roof damage and ventilation blockage.
Creve Coeur Testing →Ballwin
Suburban homes with standard attic configurations. Comprehensive ice dam and insulation testing.
Ballwin Testing →Ice dams causing problems? We serve all of St. Louis metro with expert attic mold inspection and thermal imaging services.
Schedule InspectionPROTECT YOUR HOME WITH PROFESSIONAL ATTIC MOLD INSPECTION
Don't let hidden mold damage your home's structure and your family's health
⏰ Early detection prevents costly structural damage - Schedule your inspection today