The charm of older homes in our great area will never cease to amaze us. But underneath that old architecture, a dark secret may lie.
Mold, mildew, lead paint, and other VOCs are common issues found in many older homes across Northeast Pennsylvania.
While some laws and disclosures have attempted to cut down on the presence of lead paint and asbestos, particularly older homes may still have these dangerous substances within them.
Poor ventilation found in attics, bathrooms, and kitchens in older homes also creates the perfect environment for mold. And we don’t need to mention the harm that basement flooding can do to air quality in a home.
Professional air quality testing is a crucial step in identifying and mitigating potential hazards in an older home. Whether you’re living in a historic property— or considering purchasing or selling one— here are nine reasons why you should invest in air quality testing.
What Is an Air Quality Test?
An air quality test is a professional assessment that measures the presence of pollutants, allergens, and harmful substances in indoor air. This testing helps identify contaminants such as mold spores, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon monoxide, asbestos fibers, and dust particles.
Professionals use specialized equipment to collect air samples and analyze them for harmful substances that could impact respiratory health, cause allergies, or lead to long-term illnesses.
The results provide homeowners with a clear understanding of potential air quality issues and recommendations for improving indoor air conditions.
Air quality tests are particularly important for older homes, where outdated building materials, aging ventilation systems, and hidden moisture issues can contribute to poor indoor air.
Professional air quality testing can detect problems that aren’t visible to the naked eye, allowing homeowners to take proactive measures to improve air circulation, remove contaminants, and create a healthier living environment.
6 Reasons to Get an Air Quality Test
Getting a professional air quality test is essential for your health and can also protect your home by identifying potential issues that may be hidden.
1. Identifying Hidden Mold and Mildew
Moisture intrusion and poor ventilation can lead to the presence of mold and mildew, which may be hidden from plain view and remain undetected for years.
Unfortunately, older homes are more likely to have moisture issues due to aging plumbing, roof leaks, or poor ventilation. This excess moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth, triggering allergies and respiratory issues.
Professional air quality testing can detect mold spores in the air, even if visible mold isn’t present. Identifying and addressing mold early can prevent costly remediation and health problems and point to potential leaks or moisture issues that may cause other problems in your home.
2. Detecting Asbestos Fibers
Many homes built before the 1980s contain asbestos fibers in their insulation, ceiling tiles, or siding materials. While asbestos isn’t automatically toxic on its own, when disturbed, it can become airborne and cause severe lung diseases.
Unfortunately, many people may be unaware they have asbestos in their homes or fail to disclose it when selling them.
Air quality testing can determine if asbestos fibers are present, helping homeowners take necessary precautions before renovations or repairs.
3. Checking for Lead Dust Contamination
Lead-based paint was widely used in homes before it was banned in 1978, but can still be found in several homes in Pennsylvania today. According to the EPA, 69% of homes built between 1940 and 1969 are likely to contain lead-based paint, and 87% of those built before 1940 are also likely to contain lead-based paint.
Lead-based paint can cause several harmful health effects, including:
- Developmental delays in children
- Neurological issues
- Kidney and cardiovascular problems
Professional air testing can provide extra assurance by identifying harmful lead contaminants, allowing you to remove them before occupying or buying a home.
4. Identifying Carbon Monoxide Risks
Old homes often have outdated heating systems, fireplaces, or gas appliances that can produce carbon monoxide (CO). Because CO is an odorless and deadly gas, undetected leaks pose a severe health risk. Symptoms of CO poisoning include:
- Dizziness and headaches
- Nausea
- Confusion and fatigue
Air quality testing can detect unsafe levels of carbon monoxide beyond home testing kits that ensure your home’s ventilation systems are functioning properly.
5. Checking for Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Many old homes contain building materials, adhesives, and finishes that release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air and can lead to respiratory issues. Some common sources include oil-based paints, old carpeting, adhesives, and stored chemicals.
An air quality test can identify high VOC concentrations that may be impacting your long-term health.
6. Radon Detection
Radon is a silent gas that has been linked to cancer development and other detrimental health effects. Unfortunately, 40% of homes in Pennsylvania have been linked to unsafe levels of radon exposure.
Conducting a radon test can be a lifesaver. Eliminating radon often requires a radon mitigation system installed in your basement or the lowest level of your home.
7. Testing for Poor Ventilation and Stale Air
Finally, we recommend air quality testing for older homes that have poor ventilation or older HVAC systems. Poor ventilation can lead to increased humidity, lingering odors, mold, dust, and much more.
A professional assessment can determine if your home needs better airflow solutions, such as upgraded ventilation systems or air purifiers.
How Much Does an Air Quality Test Cost?
The national average for an air quality test costs around $420, though this depends heavily on several factors:
- Home Size: The size of the home and amount of rooms or surfaces that need to be tested will greatly influence pricing.
- Hazards Tested: Prices vary between different types of air quality tests, with mold and radon testing trending on the higher side of the spectrum.
To get the most accurate air quality testing for your home, contact the experts at Mountain to Valley Home Inspections.
FAQs
Why is air quality testing important in an old house?
Older homes are more likely to have air quality issues due to outdated materials, aging ventilation systems, moisture problems, and hidden pollutants like asbestos or lead dust. Testing helps ensure a safe and healthy indoor environment.
What are common indoor air pollutants found in old homes?
Common pollutants include mold spores, asbestos fibers, lead dust, radon gas, carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), pet dander, and dust mites.
Can I use a DIY air quality test instead of hiring a professional?
DIY kits are available, but they often provide limited results. Professional testing offers more accurate and detailed analysis, especially for hazardous substances like asbestos, radon, and mold.