How Mold Testing Works: What to Expect From a Professional Inspection

Discover how mold testing identifies hidden threats and why expert analysis matters.

If you suspect mold in your home, you’re not alone. Mold thrives in damp, dark areas, especially after water damage or high humidity. But not all mold is visible—or easy to identify. That’s where professional mold testing comes in. At All Dry Services of Cleveland, we use specialized tools and techniques to detect mold growth and identify what kind you’re dealing with, so we can safely and effectively remove it.

In this post, we’ll walk you through how mold testing works, what kinds of tests are available, and what to expect when you call in a mold expert.

Why Professional Mold Testing Matters

Mold can trigger allergies, asthma, and other respiratory issues. Some types, like Stachybotrys chartarum (commonly known as black mold), produce toxins that can pose more serious health risks. Even if you can’t see mold, musty odors or symptoms in your household may be signs it’s lurking behind walls or in hidden areas.

The only way to be sure is with accurate testing.

Types of Mold Testing We Use

At All Dry Services of Cleveland, we use several testing methods to locate and identify mold:

1. Air Sampling

We collect air samples from different areas in your home and compare them to a control sample from outside. This helps us determine the concentration of mold spores in the air, which may indicate hidden mold even if you can’t see it.

2. Surface Sampling

If visible mold is present, we take swabs or tape lifts from affected surfaces to analyze under a microscope. This allows us to identify the exact species of mold and assess the severity of contamination.

3. Bulk Sampling

Sometimes materials like drywall or insulation need to be removed and tested to understand how deep the mold has penetrated. This helps us plan the safest and most effective removal process.

4. Moisture Mapping & Thermal Imaging

We don’t just test for mold—we look for the source. Using moisture meters and infrared cameras, we detect hidden leaks or areas where moisture is accumulating. Mold won’t grow without moisture, so finding the source is key to preventing future growth.

What Happens During a Mold Inspection?

When you schedule a mold inspection with us, here’s what to expect:

Visual Inspection: We look for signs of water damage, leaks, discoloration, and visible mold growth.
Moisture Readings: We use specialized equipment to check humidity levels and identify moisture hotspots.
Air and Surface Sampling: We collect samples for lab testing, if needed.
Lab Analysis: Samples are analyzed by an accredited lab to identify mold types and spore levels.
Report and Recommendation: We provide a detailed report with findings and a custom plan for remediation if mold is present.

Know Before You DIY

DIY mold tests are available online or at hardware stores, but they don’t provide a complete picture. These tests often give false positives or fail to identify hidden mold growth. Worse, they don’t come with professional insight or remediation strategies.

When your family’s health is at stake, accurate identification and proper removal are crucial.

Call All Dry Services of Cleveland for Expert Mold Testing

If you’ve had a leak, flood, or suspect mold in your home, don’t wait. Mold spreads quickly and becomes harder to remove the longer it’s left untreated. Our certified specialists are here to help with fast, reliable testing and safe mold remediation.