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Particle Testing

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Particle Testing

Indoor Particle Testing

Particles Matter

Not every indoor air quality concern is caused by mold or other microbial growth. In some homes, the primary concern may be the overall amount and type of particulate matter present in the indoor environment.

Airborne and settled particles can contribute to excessive dust, unpleasant indoor conditions, allergy-like symptoms, respiratory irritation, and general discomfort. That is why a complete indoor air quality assessment may need to look beyond mold alone.

Meier Home Inspections offers indoor particle testing to help identify the types of materials present inside the home. Laboratory analysis can provide a broader picture of the indoor environment and help determine whether common irritants, building materials, combustion particles, or biological debris may be contributing to the concern.

What Can Particle Testing Identify?

Laboratory particle analysis may identify materials such as:

  • Animal hair

  • Human hair

  • Pet dander

  • Skin cells

  • Feather barbules

  • Dust mites and dust mite fragments

  • Insect fragments

  • Plant fragments

  • Pollen

  • Cellulose fibers

  • Cotton fibers

  • Synthetic fibers

  • Fiberglass

  • Mineral wool

  • Gypsum board debris

  • Paint particles

  • Copy toner

  • Dust particles

  • Soil

  • Silica

  • Starch

  • Sea salt aerosol

  • Ash

  • Soot

Why Is Particle Testing Important?

Many different materials can become airborne or accumulate within a home. Depending on the particle type and concentration, these materials may:

  • Aggravate allergies or sensitivities

  • Irritate the nose, throat, eyes, or respiratory system

  • Increase the amount of visible dust inside the home

  • Indicate deteriorating insulation or building materials

  • Suggest combustion-related contamination

  • Reveal pest-related debris

  • Contribute to an overall decline in indoor air quality

Particle testing can be especially useful when occupants are experiencing discomfort, odors, excessive dust, or respiratory irritation but mold testing does not identify an elevated microbial concern.

Looking at the Entire Indoor Environment

A quality indoor air assessment should not focus on only one possible source. When testing is limited to mold alone, other potential contributors may be overlooked.

Particle testing helps provide a more complete understanding of the indoor environment by identifying materials that may be circulating through the air or collecting within the home.

Sometimes there is no significant microbial growth concern.

Sometimes the problem is simply an excessive amount of airborne irritants.

That is why particles matter.

Schedule Indoor Particle Testing

Meier Home Inspections provides professional indoor air quality and particle testing services throughout White County and surrounding areas.

Contact us to discuss your concerns and determine which type of indoor air quality testing may be appropriate for your home.

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