Home ‣ Environmental Services ‣ Particle Counting
InterNACHI
Certified IAQ Inspector
Why Measure Particulate Matter?
What are typical sources of Particulate Matter?
Particulate matter is typically brought in from outdoor dust, pollen, smoke, smog and other outdoor sources. Indoor sources may include copier machines, printers, paper dust, environmental tobacco smoke, carpet fibers, upholstery, skin cells, pet dander, dust mite allergens and poorly ventilated combustion processes (fireplaces, kitchen cooking areas, boilers, furnaces, gas heaters, wood stoves, etc).
From outdoor sources; respirable particles that are 2.5-10 µm, and course, inhalable, suspended particles that are 10 -25 µm+, are found near roadways and dusty industries. Fine particles, those that are 2.5 µm and smaller, are usually the result of smoke and haze (forest fires, gases from power plants, industries, and motor vehicles).
Mold spores and fragments are microscopic (2-25 µm) and are naturally present in both indoor and outdoor air. Molds reproduce by means of spores. Some molds have spores that are easily disturbed and waft into the air and settle repeatedly with each disturbance. Other molds have sticky spores that will cling to surfaces and are dislodged by brushing against them or by other direct contact. If the particulate levels are elevated in this mold range, mold sampling can be performed to help determine what type and level of mold is present within the occupied spaces.
Here is a simple chart to show common sizing of various particulate:
It is unlikely that one standard or guideline will lead to complete protection to the health effects of particulate matter. Particulates less than 10 µm diameter are the most dangerous because are inhalable and can get deep in to your lungs and even your bloodstream. People that already have heart or lung diseases, children and the elderly are the ones usually affected the most. Due to this, some of the health effects are:
- Increased respiratory symptoms, such as irritation of the airways, coughing, or difficulty breathing; i.e.
- Decreased lung capacity
- Aggravated asthma
- Development of chronic bronchitis
- Irregular heart beat
- Non-fatal heart attacks
- Premature death of people with heart or lung diseases
Establishing a baseline of particulate data to compare to when complaints arise, or when construction is in progress or after changes have been made to an occupied space can provide valuable information to a Facility Manager, Building Owner or IAQ investigator.
In some cases, tracking increasing particulate levels may be used to “bloodhound” a source of airborne particulate. Elevated particulate, in the absence of a known source, may also indicate justification for air sampling, to be sent out for detailed laboratory analysis of the chemical composition of the particles.
Elite Mold Services
Why choose our Particle Counting (PM) services?
Fast Turnaround Times
Fast scheduling and prompt turnaround to help you begin restoration quickly.
Experienced Technicians
Experienced inspectors specializing in home allergen testing.
Accurate and Reliable Results
Detailed, easy-to-understand reports with clear findings and professional recommendations.
Affordable Pricing
Competitive rates without compromising quality.
FAQ
Questions homeowners ask before booking.
Don’t see yours? Call 407-753-6341
What is indoor particle counting (particulate matter) testing?
Indoor particle counting measures the number and size of airborne particles circulating inside a building. This testing helps identify poor indoor air quality that may be caused by dust, pollen, smoke, pet dander, construction debris, or other fine particles that can affect respiratory health and occupant comfort.
Who should consider indoor particulate matter testing in Central Florida?
Homeowners, business owners, schools, healthcare facilities, property managers, and real estate buyers can all benefit from indoor particle counting. It’s especially valuable for individuals with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory conditions who want to understand what they’re breathing indoors.
Does high humidity in Central Florida affect indoor particle levels?
Yes. While humidity itself is not a particulate, Central Florida’s humid climate can allow dust, pollen, mold spores, and other airborne particles to remain suspended or accumulate more easily. High humidity can also reduce HVAC efficiency if systems are not properly maintained.
Will indoor particle counting identify the exact type of particles in my home?
No. Particle counters measure the concentration and size of airborne particles but do not identify their composition. If identification is needed, additional testing such as mold sampling, allergen testing, or laboratory analysis may be recommended.
Can outdoor air pollution affect indoor particle counts?
Yes. Vehicle emissions, pollen, wildfire smoke, construction activity, and other outdoor pollutants can enter buildings through doors, windows, ventilation systems, and small air leaks. Indoor particle counting helps determine how much outdoor pollution is impacting your indoor environment.
Why choose Elite Mold Services for OSHA indoor air quality complaint investigations?
Elite’s professional indoor air quality inspectors uses calibrated equipment, follow established testing procedures, evaluates multiple sampling locations, and interpret the results within the context of your building. We can also recommend practical solutions to reduce airborne particle levels.
Proudly serving all of Central Florida.
Cities
Testimonials
What Our Clients Say
Jason Myers
4 weeks ago
David was amazing and personable and was able to truly bring peace and comfort in having our property assessed in the intentional way he walked through everything and how he handled sharing the information he presented. If I ever have the opportunity to recommend this company and their services to another person, I would instantly think of David and the amazing work he provided! Truly grateful for his expertise and his approach!
Charlene Dance
4 weeks ago
This was the most thorough inspection we experienced. David Jones educated us on the process. And we felt very confident upon his completion we would have a report we could trust. We will be using this business again for our other homes!
Kelsey Johnson-Sapp
4 weeks ago
We had an INCREDIBLE experience with Elite Mold Services!! Roger was our inspector and he was AWESOME- super responsive, knowledgeable, and professional. The work was conducted efficiently and our report was back within 48 hours, super fast turn around. The report is really comprehensive, and Roger took the time for a follow up to address any of my questions. Would recommend this service 100000x over, THANK YOU ROGER!!
Tracey Longs
1 month ago
James was informative and helpful during the test phase. Smooth process.
Melissa Cook
2 months ago
I can’t say enough good things about my experience with Eduardo and the entire team. I discovered mold in my mom’s apartment shortly after she had undergone surgery, and she was already dealing with enough physically and emotionally. Eduardo immediately understood that I was trying to get answers without causing her any additional stress. He was incredibly kind and discreet, sharing his concerns with me privately as her caretaker rather than alarming her before we knew exactly what we were dealing with.
Throughout the entire process, communication was excellent. Everything was clearly explained, questions were answered promptly, and the pricing was fair and completely transparent. There were no surprises or attempts to take advantage of an already stressful situation.
Eduardo was compassionate, knowledgeable, professional, and genuinely seemed to care about handling a difficult situation the right way. The entire staff was wonderful from beginning to end.
I sincerely hope I never need mold testing again, but if I do, I know exactly who I’ll call. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Eduardo and this team to anyone who needs this kind of service. An easy five stars.
Kevin Dunn
2 months ago
Definitely recommend Elite Mold Services! Scheduling with Roxy over the phone was fast and easy. She was very kind and helpful. We were assigned James as our inspector. He was incredibly thorough. After his investigation, he went over everything with us in a way that showed he was knowledgeable and caring. The way he shared everything, we felt it easy to follow and trust his observations.
We probably could have done a more focused investigation in certain areas of our home, but having the whole home inspected was helpful and gave us more peace of mind. James was able to detect concerns and things to look out for we wouldn't have otherwise noticed.
With the whole home investigation and adding on air sampling to detect any mold, we ended up paying close to $500. But it was a worth it investment for sure, based on what we got. We received an easy to read report afterward, as well as a call from James to go over the air sample results. Overall, great job Elite Mold! Thank you!!
Lisa Minter
3 months ago
I received excellent customer service. Our inspector Roger Rhule was knowledgeable, thorough. He went into the attic to inspect an area where there was water damage to see if there was any active organism growth. He made realistic and conservative recommendations for better indoor air quality. Highly recommend this company.
Amanda Lopez
3 months ago
We had a great experience! James was informative, thorough, and helped walk us through each space. We discussed the options for testing and best practices for prevention. The tests came back incredibly quick from the lab. We were relieved and would recommend using Elite for your testing for sure!
Kim the Kangaroo
4 months ago
I had a supercalifragilisticexpialidocious experience with Elite Mold Services from start to finish. Scheduling was easy, they inspected the next day, arrived on time, and the entire process was handled professionally. The inspector, James, was knowledgeable, thorough, and took the time to carefully inspect my condominium for mold.
What I appreciated most was how clearly James explained everything to me. He answered all of my questions with patience and honesty, making sure I understood his findings. I also received a written report without delay. It’s clear that James and Elite care about their customers and take pride in doing a thorough job.
I highly recommend Elite! Their professionalism, attention to detail, and outstanding customer service made the entire experience stress-free.
Thank you for giving me such excellent service!
Big Al
9 months ago
Elite Mold Services were extremely helpful in both setting up an inspection and in going over the results of the sampling. Roger was very knowledgeable about the situation and how mold build-up occured. He's experienced and professional, and took the time to explain each part of the inspection and sampling proccess. If I end up in another situation where I need to hire an inspector, I will be calling Elite Mold Services first.
Valeria Ruiz
9 months ago
James showed up and did his job and report was very detailed
Margarita Cassell
9 months ago
James was very thorough and detailed in the inspection of my home! I was contacted promptly once lab results came back in. I was additionally provided with a detailed report which has guidance on understanding my inspection and results. I would highly recommend Elite mold services. Thank you 😊
Peter Miller
9 months ago
Roger is great
Keith Malick
9 months ago
Elite Mold Services was wonderful to deal with after our recent water leak damage. Their website is easy to utilize. They were excellent with communications, following up with emails and texts to confirm documents and appointments. The tech, Derek, showed on time for our appointment and was efficient and friendly to deal with. His report was forwarded on time and well presented.
If you need to ease your mind about mold in your home, I highly recommend calling Elite.
Wadie Abu-Rahmeh
9 months ago
Delighted! Besides the excellent, timely, respectful, thorough inspection, my wife and I received useful knowledge and recommendations which rounded the experience. There are times you feel like you got what you paid for and others where you want to have someone as your friend because you felt safe and trusted what they told you. James was the ultimate professional, asking about areas of concern, thoughtful in his response, and informative about every aspect. Thanks James and Elite Mold Services keep up the client centeredness!
Peter S
10 months ago
Derek Downs is the Mold inspector who was amazing. He checked our home thoroughly. He kept my wife and I informed throughout the process. He inspected even under our home. Honesty is the most important part of any inspection. Mr. Downs showed us parts of our house we thought had Mold, and he said those places were fine. The bottom line is I recommend Elite Mold Services for their integrity and honesty.
Pam Colding
11 months ago
We were so pleased with the experience we had with Elite Mold Services. Edwardo came to our home in Lakeland and was so knowledgeable and pleasant. He explained everything to us and answered all our questions. He told us when he left that if we had any questions to call him anytime. When I got my report I had some questions and called him. He talked to me at 7:30 pm (my husband and I work nights so this was such a convenience for us) I was so impressed and grateful for his excellent customer service. I highly recommend this company and actually have already recommended them to a close friend.
