Mold Inspection Vs. Testing: Testing Basics

In part one of this two-part series, we went over some of the primary tenets of mold inspections that take place in homes for various reasons. Whether for a home sale or for any other need, mold inspections are common – but they differ in a few important ways from mold tests, which often have related goals but involve a different and more involved approach. 

At Aerolite Consulting, we’re here to offer a huge range of both home inspections and environmental testing services, including mold testing and inspections for any home around Salt Lake City, Provo, Orem, St. George or any other part of Utah. While part one of our series went over mold inspections and what you can expect during one, today’s part two will dig into mold tests – when and why they’re utilized, the different kinds of mold tests out there, and more. 

Mold Testing Basics

As the term suggests, mold testing is a process designed to analyze the presence and levels of mold in or around a structure. In some cases, it’s used together with an inspection, while in other cases it’s used on its own for more detailed analysis. 

The main purpose of a mold test is to provide the homeowner with a fuller picture of their indoor environment – and when necessary, give them actionable items to resolve airborne mold issues. In some cases, a mold test can even help determine what kind of fungi is present and in what quantities. 

Types of Mold Test

There are a few types of mold testing that may be applied to a given home or building, including:

• Surface sampling: This involves swabbing or tape lifting an area to get a sample of the material’s surface. This is done for anything from counters, furniture and carpets to walls and ceilings. It’s one of the most commonly used mold tests because it’s quick and straightforward. 

• Air quality testing: Another common mold test method, this involves using an air sampler to take samples from the indoor environment and then analyzing them for various types of fungi. 

• ERMI mold testing: ERMI stands for Environmental Relative Moldiness Index, and this is a more in-depth mold test that involves sampling of various areas of the home, before sending them in to a lab for full analysis. 

Which of these tests is performed will depend on the unique circumstances of the home, as well as the goals of the inspection or test. In some cases, more than one type of mold test may be used in order to provide a fuller picture and better analysis. 

At Aerolite Consulting, our goal is to make sure our clients get the best possible assessment of their indoor environment, whether they’re undergoing a mold inspection or a mold test. We provide comprehensive testing and inspection services for homes all around Utah, and our team of experts can help you understand the results of any test or inspection that you may be undertaking. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you!