Each method below produces different data. We explain which is appropriate for your Des Plaines, IL property situation before you commit.
Non-Viable
💨Spore Trap Air Sampling
Spore trap cassettes collect all airborne particles — viable and non-viable — and are analyzed under microscopy for mold genus identification and spore concentration. Results typically return in 24–48 hours from an accredited lab. Compared against an outdoor baseline, this data shows whether indoor spore counts are elevated and which genera are present. Standard method for routine Des Plaines, IL residential and commercial air quality assessment.
Viable
🏭Viable Culture Air Sampling
Viable culture plates capture live, culturable mold spores that grow on culture media — allowing species-level identification and colony-forming unit counts. Results take 5–7 business days but provide species-level data that spore traps can't. Used when species-level identification matters: Stachybotrys confirmation, occupational health documentation, or situations where genus-level data from spore traps isn't sufficient for your Des Plaines, IL use case.
Surface
🎖Surface Swab & Tape Lift Sampling
Surface swab samples from visible growth areas are sent to an accredited lab for culture analysis or direct microscopy — confirming whether visible discoloration is mold and identifying the genus/species. Tape lifts provide a faster direct-microscopy option for surface assessment. Used when the presence of mold on a specific surface needs to be confirmed and identified before committing to a removal scope.
ERMI
🔋ERMI Floor Dust Sampling
Environmental Relative Moldiness Index (ERMI) sampling uses qPCR analysis on settled floor dust to identify and quantify 36 specific mold species — providing a historical picture of mold accumulation in a Des Plaines, IL property rather than a snapshot of current airborne levels. Used for post-remediation verification, long-term occupant health investigation, and situations where previous mold activity may have settled into dust but isn't actively airborne.
HVAC
🏢HVAC Register & Return Air Testing
Testing directly at HVAC supply registers and return grilles identifies whether the air distribution system is distributing mold spores throughout the property. Elevated counts at registers compared to room-level samples confirm the AHU or ductwork as the amplification source — critical before any duct cleaning or coil remediation decision in your Des Plaines building.
Clearance
📄Post-Remediation Clearance Testing
Post-remediation clearance testing for any Des Plaines property — whether we did the remediation or another contractor did. Written clearance report from an independent accredited lab confirms the job is objectively complete.
