Air Mold Sampling
Recommended for anyone with year-round allergies, severe asthma, and when active leaks are found to be present
What types of homes can mold be found in?
Think of mold like dust or pollen—it's a natural element that exists almost everywhere, both indoors and out. Its main job in nature is to break down organic matter, like fallen leaves, which is vital for the environment. Because mold spores are microscopic and travel through the air, they naturally find their way into every home. In most cases, they just drift through without causing any issues; they can become a 'concern' if they find a persistent source of moisture to settle on.
What is air mold sampling?
Air mold sampling is a process used to measure the concentration and types of mold spores floating in an indoor environment. We use professional-grade, self-calibrating air sampling pumps to collect mold spores and trap them in a sampling cassette. An outdoor control sample is also collected and provides a baseline to determine if indoor spore levels are unusually elevated.
*We also offer tape lift and swab mold sampling. These collection methods are applicable to areas of visible and accessible suspected surface mold.
How can there be mold in Utah's dry climate?
Where there is plumbing there is the possibility of moisture from leaks that may result in mold growth. The mountains of Utah experience a significant amount of snow run-off each spring. Because the ground is often still frozen when snow starts melting, it cannot absorb the water. This forces the runoff to flow along the surface until it finds a porous surface to penetrate.
Materials like concrete, brick, and cinder block are naturally porous and act like a sponge. They can draw moisture from the wet soil directly into your basement or crawl space. On the roof, ice dams can trap melting snow, forcing water to back up under shingles and leak into your attic, walls, and ceilings.
Can mold be a health risk?
If your family experiences unexplained allergies, headaches, or respiratory issues, air sampling data is an essential piece of the puzzle needed to determine if indoor air quality is a contributing factor.
Can air mold sampling save me money?
Our laboratory generated reports provide scientific data of the level and mold spore types detected at the time of the sample collection. This is a valuable tool for negotiating repairs with the seller and providing peace of mind before moving your family into their new home. Catching a potential mold problem early allows for localized cleaning rather than full-scale professional remediation, which may cost thousands of dollars if a hidden leak has been left to spread.