This post is a bit different from our usual format, but I wanted to share a real-life scenario involving one of our neighbors, a flood, and infrared cameras.
Our neighbor, who has a walk-in tub due to a disability, experienced a leak one morning that caused significant flooding in their bathroom. A restoration company responded quickly, arriving within hours to address the situation.
For the most part, they took the right steps—setting up containment in the flooded area, removing baseboards, carpet, and padding, and setting up fans to dry the space. But here’s where things went wrong.
An employee used an infrared camera to check behind the drywall and tile. Seeing a blue area on the screen, which typically indicates moisture, they told our neighbor it was black mold. Understandably, this made our neighbor anxious, and they were ready to allow the company to remove a large amount of material from the bathroom—potentially voiding the warranty on their specialized tub—until we stepped in.
We conducted a thorough mold inspection, including air spore trap testing, moisture readings, and humidity measurements using digital equipment. The results showed no presence of mold spores, meaning there was no need to tear out the drywall or tile. The only issue was the vinyl flooring, which had trapped some moisture beneath it due to the flood and needed to be replaced.
So, can infrared cameras really see mold behind walls? Are they so advanced that they can replace professional mold testing. Short answer, NO! But let's talk about why.
The Myth: Can Infrared Cameras See Mold?
There’s a common misconception that infrared cameras can detect mold hidden behind walls, floors, or ceilings. The truth is, IR cameras cannot "see" mold. Mold spores themselves are too small to be detected by any camera. What an infrared camera does detect are temperature differences caused by moisture, which may indicate the presence of water damage—one of the main contributors to mold growth.
What Infrared Cameras Really Show
While IR cameras don’t directly identify mold, they are effective at revealing hidden problems like moisture accumulation, water intrusion, and temperature inconsistencies within a building. These are all red flags that mold may be present or could develop, but not there is mold.
Here’s what an infrared camera can detect:
Cold Spots – Often caused by moisture, which is a key condition for mold growth.
Water Damage – IR cameras can highlight areas of a wall, ceiling, or floor that are damp and need further inspection.
Heat Loss – Identifying areas where heat escapes can reveal insulation gaps, which sometimes coincide with areas of condensation that promote mold growth.
Why Certified Mold Testing is More Accurate
While an IR camera is a helpful tool for spotting potential issues, it is not a replacement for
professional mold testing. Mold spores can’t be confirmed without taking samples and testing them in a laboratory. This can be done with mold spore air traps, swabs and taking bulk samples.
That’s why if moisture or signs of water damage are detected using infrared technology, the next step is to have a certified mold inspector conduct a thorough examination. They will:
Take air and surface samples.
Perform a moisture reading analysis.
Use specialized tools beyond IR cameras to determine the extent of the mold problem.
Provide a detailed report with actionable steps for remediation.
Mold Testing in Colorado: Stay Safe, Stay Compliant
In the Colorado region, mold is not regulated like asbestos. But it’s crucial to get ahead of mold problems, whether you’re dealing with an older home or new construction. The key to managing mold is early detection and accurate testing. Certified mold testing not only protects your property and health but also ensures the most accurate information. Most certified mold inspectors will also make recommendations for next steps, which helps saves on remediation companies.
When Should You Get Professional Mold Testing?
Here are some situations where professional testing is essential:
After detecting moisture or water damage with an IR camera.
Before buying or selling a home, especially in the Denver metro area.
After flooding, roof leaks, or plumbing issues (especially burst pipes in the cold months)
If you notice a musty smell or see visible signs of mold.
Why Professional Mold Testing is a game charger
Especially in Colorado, where homes and buildings can experience significant seasonal temperature shifts, mold can be a sneaky problem. Certified mold testing offers several advantages:
Accurate Results: Only laboratory tests can confirm whether or not mold is present, what type it is, and the severity of the contamination.
Proper Remediation: Without professional testing, you could spend thousands on unnecessary remediation or, worse, overlook a serious mold issue.
Peace of Mind: Knowing the true extent of the problem helps you tackle it with confidence, saving you time and money in the long run.
At Elevation Environmental Services, LLC, we understand the importance of accurate mold detection and the safety of our clients health. While infrared cameras are great for spotting potential issues, certified mold testing is the only way to get definitive answers. Our team specializes in mold testing in Colorado, helping homeowners and businesses protect their properties and their health.
If you are looking for mold testing, schedule with us today by calling 720-318-6947Â or visiting our website at www.elevationenviro.com.
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