Mold Testing and Sampling

Indoor Air Quality Testing

An indoor air quality test's purpose is to test the “purity” or quality of the air breathed by occupants of an indoor or enclosed environment. This type of air sample will identify mold spore counts and specify what types of mold present in the area of the taken sample. This type of test will also have counts of dander, fiber counts and pollen counts.

It is important to know the count of spores because we all have invisible mold spores in our environment. It is just nature. The spore count helps us determine if the spore count is normal in your environment or if there is a large issue to look at. For example, to what degree the contamination is and a clearer picture to what is behind walls and cavities.

Experts recommend that you take a test in every red-flag area. For purposes of getting a baseline reading, you will need to take a minimum of three samples. Variables on how many tests would be necessary are the locality of red-flag areas and square footage. Your inspector will discuss your options and what would be best for your situation and budget.

This sample will be sent to an AIHA Accredited Laboratory and signed by a microbiologist.

Mold Surface Sampling

Mold surface sampling is taken by a swab sample or by a tape lift sample. This will confirm mold growth and of what type of fungal family it is from. The samples will be sent to an AIHA Accredited Laboratory and signed by a microbiologist. If you have spots of fungal growth that appear to be have different variations, it is recommended that you take one of each variation for accuracy of what is visibly present.

Is it always necessary to sample for mold?

In most cases, if visible mold growth is present, sampling is unnecessary. Air sampling or indoor air quality for mold may not be part of a routine assessment because decisions about appropriate removal strategies often can be made on the basis of a visual inspection.

Testing for mold is expensive, and there should be a clear reason for doing so. In many cases, it is not practical or useful to test for mold growth on surfaces or for airborne spores in the building.

When is mold testing recommended?

Testing is usually done to compare the levels and types of mold spores found inside the building with those found outside of the building or for comparison with another location in the building.

In addition, air sampling may provide tangible evidence supporting a hypothesis that investigators have formulated.

For example, air sampling may show a higher concentration of the same species of mold when the HVAC is operating than when it has been turned off. This finding may convince the investigators that the mold is growing within, and being disseminated by, the HVAC system.

If you know you have a mold problem, it is more important to spend time and resources removing the mold and solving the moisture problem that causes the moldy conditions than to undertake extensive testing for the type and quantity of mold.