What You Should Know About Air Sampling for Mold

What is Air Sampling?

Air samples are one of the common techniques used to test for mold. This method quantifies the exposure levels associated with an indoor space and typically compares that level to an outdoor baseline.

Air Matters LLC uses spore trap samples for its air sampling services, specifically the AIR-O-CELL air sampling cassette. This device is designed for the rapid collection and analysis of a range of airborne bioaerosols including fungal species, pollen, skin cell fragments, and insect parts.


How Does Air Sampling Work?

A high volume air pump is calibrated prior to the start of the sample. The AIR-O-CELL cassette is labeled and attached to a tube at the end of the pump. The pump pulls the particulate laden air through the cassette, and the air flow continues out an exit orifice. The length of the sampling period is digitally timed to ensure accurate calculation of the air flow.

The particles are deposited on an adhesive area contained inside the cassette. The AIR-O-CELL cassette is removed from the tubing and sealed. The specific information regarding the sample is recorded on a chain of custody form. After the assessment, all samples and the chain of custody are transported to the laboratory for analysis.

At the lab, the cassette is opened and examined under a microscope. The various particles are identified and quantified. This information is summarized in a report and transmitted to Air Matters LLC.


What Does Air Sampling Tell You?

It is important to remember that air sampling data provides a snapshot of one specific moment in time. Conditions change constantly based on such factors as temperature, HVAC operation, relative humidity, or building activities.

Since there are no widely accepted numerical guidelines regarding mold like there are for other contaminants (radon for example), a thorough site assessment by a qualified professional is critical to interpreting laboratory findings.

If you have more specific questions about air sampling, give us a call today!




Air Matters LLC has performed mold testing services in the Raleigh NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee D. Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelors and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. You may contact Air Matters at (919) 961-2221 or info@AirMattersMoldTesting.com.