Air Sampling vs Surface Sampling
Surface sampling identifies what a visible growth is. Air sampling measures what is actually airborne and therefore breathable, compared against an outdoor control. If you can see growth, surface sampling identifies it; if you smell something but see nothing, air sampling is the tool that finds it.
| Surface sampling (tape lift or swab) | Air sampling (spore trap) | |
|---|---|---|
| Answers | What is this growth? | What is in the air we breathe? |
| Requires visible growth | Yes | No |
| Needs outdoor control | No | Yes, always |
| Finds hidden growth | No | Often |
| Typical cost | $125 | $599 Standard Inspection |
| Best for | Identifying visible mold | Unexplained odour or symptoms |
Most complete inspections use both when visible growth exists, and air sampling alone when it does not.
Related
Common questions
Which option do most people choose?
Most people who call us already know something is wrong and want it established properly rather than guessed at. The exception is a small visible patch with an obvious cause, where we usually tell them to clean it themselves.
Will you tell me if I do not need testing?
Yes, and we do it regularly. Phone consultations are free. A company that never talks anyone out of a purchase is a company selling rather than assessing.
Can I change my mind after booking?
Yes. There is no charge to reschedule or cancel with reasonable notice.
Get a straight answer about your building
We test, document and verify. We never sell remediation, so we have no reason to find a problem you do not have.