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Frequently Asked
Frequently Asked
Questions
Find answers to common questions about our environmental testing and field science services.
General Questions
About Our Services
IRIS Laboratories is an accredited analytical lab. Our methods cover asbestos (PCM, PLM, TEM), mold (spore trap, tape lift, direct exam), lead and metals (ICP-OES), silica, VOCs, and fire-damage particulate. We also deploy our own certified field professionals when clients need samples collected on-site, for both residential and commercial properties.
Most on-site field science visits take 2–4 hours depending on the property size and scope of sampling required. Commercial properties may require additional time. We work to minimize disruption to your schedule while ensuring thorough sample collection.
Laboratory results are typically available within 24-48 hours after sampling. You'll receive a detailed report with findings and analysis. Rush services may be available for urgent situations.
We serve clients across New Jersey, New York, Florida, Texas, Pennsylvania, Maryland, North Carolina, and South Carolina from our laboratory at 2333 US-22 West, Union, NJ 07083.
IRIS Laboratories specializes in accredited laboratory testing and field science. We do not perform remediation work. This eliminates any conflict of interest and ensures our findings are completely objective.
Mold Questions
About Mold Testing
Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in damp, warm environments. It can grow on walls, ceilings, floors, in HVAC systems, basements, crawl spaces, and anywhere moisture accumulates. Some common indoor molds include Aspergillus, Penicillium, Cladosporium, and Stachybotrys (black mold).
Mold exposure can cause allergic reactions including sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash. People with asthma may experience worsened symptoms. Prolonged exposure to certain toxic molds like Stachybotrys can cause more serious respiratory issues and other health problems.
Yes. Professional testing identifies the specific type of mold present, the full extent of contamination including hidden growth behind walls, and the overall air quality. This information is critical for developing an effective remediation plan and ensuring all mold is addressed.
Keep indoor humidity below 60%, fix leaks and water intrusion promptly, ensure proper ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens, use exhaust fans, clean and dry wet areas within 24-48 hours, and schedule periodic mold sampling to catch problems early.
Asbestos Questions
About Asbestos Testing
Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring mineral fibers that were widely used in construction materials before the 1980s due to their heat resistance, strength, and insulating properties. Common asbestos-containing materials include floor tiles, insulation, roof shingles, pipe cement, and textured coatings.
Homes built before 1980 are more likely to contain asbestos materials. You cannot identify asbestos by visual inspection alone. Laboratory testing of material samples is required. Common locations include floor tiles, pipe insulation, textured ceilings, vermiculite attic insulation, and cement products.
When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, microscopic fibers become airborne and can be inhaled. This can cause serious conditions including mesothelioma (cancer of the lung lining), lung cancer, and asbestosis (chronic lung scarring). Symptoms often don't appear for 10-40 years after exposure.
While some states allow homeowners to remove asbestos from their own single-family homes, it is strongly recommended to hire certified professionals. Improper removal releases dangerous fibers into the air, putting you, your family, and neighbors at serious risk.
No. Depending on the condition and location, encapsulation (sealing the material) or enclosure (building around it) may be appropriate alternatives. If materials are in good condition and won't be disturbed, leaving them in place with regular monitoring may be safest.
Lead Questions
About Lead Testing
Lead-based paint was banned for residential use in the United States in 1978. However, homes built before this date may still contain lead paint. The older the home, the more likely it is to contain lead. Homes built before 1950 have the highest risk.
Children under six years old are most vulnerable because their developing bodies absorb lead more easily. Pregnant women are also at increased risk. Lead exposure can cause irreversible neurological damage, learning disabilities, behavioral problems, and developmental delays in children.
Yes. Federal law requires sellers of homes built before 1978 to disclose any known lead-based paint hazards, provide buyers with the EPA pamphlet 'Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home,' and allow a 10-day period for lead testing before purchase.
We collect water samples from your taps following EPA-approved first-draw and flush protocols. Samples are analyzed in our accredited laboratory. If elevated levels are found, we report the results against applicable regulatory action levels. Next steps should be discussed with a licensed remediation contractor or your local water authority.
Still Have Questions?
Contact our team for personalized answers to your environmental testing questions.