Until the mid-1970s, asbestos was a very popular construction material. This fibrous mineral became well-known as a fire retardant and insulation material, but today, we realize that long-term exposure to asbestos fibers in the air can cause serious damage to lung tissue. It can even lead to lung cancer and mesothelioma. Finding the best asbestos detector test kit is important to keep your family safe.
Best Asbestos Detector Test Kit Comparison
Best for Fast Results
- Lab fees included in price
- Consultation included in price
- Low cost
- Quick and accurate results
Best for Accurate Results
- Lab fees included in price
- Consultation included in price
- Also tests for lead and mold
- Accurate results
Best for a Low Budget
- Lab fees NOT included in price
- Consultation NOT included in price
- Low cost
- Quick and accurate results
Best Asbestos Detector Test Kit Reviews
SEEML, Inc is an experienced environmental laboratory staffed by biologists and microbiologists, who will thoroughly analyze your returned sample. Each kit includes everything needed to collect and return your sample. This includes gloves, a protective mask, the instructions, plastic bags for samples, and the return envelope.
Once completed, you’ll receive a free, detailed professional lab report, along with access to expert consultation. The report covers the % of asbestos, % of Fibrous non-asbestos material, and the % of non-fibrous material. The results of your report will be emailed directly to you and you can call them for more information if needed.
Your sample will be archived for up to two weeks, and your report will be saved for up to three years.
It’s important to note that the turnaround time of 2-3 days is not relevant for everyone in the US. Some locations can take over two weeks to receive the test results.
Additionally, the test results are not accurate for all customers. Some customers have reported test results that conflict with what was reported by a professional’s second opinion.
Package size: 6.69 x 4.41 x 1.42 inches
Package weight: 2.89 ounces
Package color: White, orange, and blue
Pros:
- All lab fees and consultation costs are included in the original price
- Kit includes materials for one sample, additional samples may be added on for a fee
- 2 – 3 day turnaround time for results, once sample is received
Cons:
- Poor customer service
- Poor response time via email
- Turnaround time can be long for some locations in the US
Test results:
The Schneider Labs test kits are known for being accurate, but not timely. These tests are a little more expensive when compared to other test kits, however, you get what you pay for. The turnaround time on these is just a little longer, but the test results are more accurate.
The tests can not only detect asbestos, but can also detect mold, E. Coli, and more.
All shipping, lab, and analysis fees are included in the purchase price. Results will be sent via PDF attachment to your email address within five days of lab receipt of your sample.
It’s important to note that if you want additional samples through Schneider labs, then it’s going to cost some money. Additional samples have been increasing in price each year from $15 to $20 and not $25. This is more expensive when compared to the Asbestos Inspector in a Box.
Package size: 6.25 x 4.25 x 1.75 inches
Package weight: 2.89 ounzes
Package color: Grey, white, and purple
Pros:
- Each test kit provides full analysis for one sample, including sampling media, return shipping, lab fees, and consultation.
- Online portal and automatic notification system help you keep track of your sample’s status
- Accurate results
Cons:
- Not a CAC/SSS accredited asbestos test kit
- Long turnaround time (over 5 days in the description)
- More expensive than some brands
Test Results
We purchased one of the Schneider test kits on Jun 28th and received it from amazon within 2 days. However, it took over 9 business days to receive the rest results from Schneider labs after sending them in. This was well over the 5 business days stated in the description.
Additionally, once we received the test kit from Amazon, we then had to register online. This process was particularly confusing and the website was not very user-friendly. Non the less, once we were able to actually register online, the rest of the process was fairly simple and stress-free. Although it took quite a while to receive the test results, they were accurate, thorough, and easy to understand.
The PRO-LAB DIY asbestos test kit will test two samples for asbestos, per box. This is why the test kit is a better bank for your buck when compared to the Schneider Labs and the Asbestos Detector in a Box. On the contrary, you do have to pay a $40 lab fee to have the two samples tested. This is not part of the cost for the other test kits. The original price you are paying for in this case covers only gloves, a plastic bag for collecting the sample, and a return envelope.
Once your samples are received and you pay the testing fee, you will receive an email notification. Simply download the app to review your samples and results.
Customers commonly have issues with timely responses when working with Pro-Lab. In some cases, it can take over two weeks to receive the test results. On top of that, customer service is extremely poor and takes multiple days to respond.
Package size: 6 x 1.25 x 8 inches
Package Weight: 1.76 Ounces
Package color: Purple, Blue, Red, and White
Pros:
- Results in five days from lab receipt
- Includes two samples while most test kits only have one
- PRO-LAB app makes it easy to track and review your samples and data
Cons:
- The lab fees are not included in this test kit
- The turnaround time is notably slower than the others on our list
- Customer service is poor and slow to respond
Test Results
It was fairly simple to follow the Pro-Lab tester directions. We sent off our tests on April 11th and did not get them back until May 9th. Additionally, we tried calling several times with no response. This test kit seemed accurate and was consistent with the others, but not worth the wait time and cost of lab fees.
Trial Results Summary
Why Do I Need an Asbestos Detector Test Kit?
As noted, asbestos within your home can be very harmful. In order to protect the long-term health of you and your family, it is best to be aware of any dangerous asbestos exposure.
There are several methods for removing or reducing asbestos exposure from your home, and the first step to deciding how to mitigate this problem is through learning the level of exposure. A test kit will help experts provide detailed information so you can plan for an asbestos-free future.
What Should I Look for When Buying An Asbestos Test Kit?
Before you purchase an asbestos test kit, take a look at what is included in the purchase price. You may encounter additional fees in addition to the cost of the kit. These can include:
- Lab fees
- Return shipping costs
- Test fees
- Return results fees
When comparing the costs of test kits, make sure you’re aware of any extra fees.
Additionally, you may wish to review the turnaround time for your results and results in the delivery method. Your test kit will need to be shipped to a laboratory, and the instructions should let you know how long it will take to receive results. Your results may be delivered via email, posted on an app, or otherwise delivered to you. Make sure you know how and when to expect them.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have asbestos in my home?
Asbestos was discontinued as a frequently-used building material prior to 1980, so this dangerous material is typically found in older homes. Unfortunately, it’s impossible to tell if asbestos exists within insulation, wall or ceiling materials, flooring, pipes, and more unless it is tested.
Is asbestos always dangerous?
The highest danger from asbestos comes from inhaling particles of this fiber. When you drill or nail into a surface that is treated with or contains asbestos, the tiny particles are launched into the air, where they can remain airborne for 48-72 hours. With intense air circulation, it’s possible for asbestos to remain in the air indefinitely unless it is filtered out. However, if asbestos is left completely undisturbed, it poses minimal risk.
Final Thoughts
Those who live in older homes may wish to conduct asbestos testing to ensure their living space is safe. Asbestos home kits allow homeowners to have samples professionally examined in a laboratory setting.
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Frank is the chief editor and director at Specialty Air, where he oversees testing, research, and editing for all air quality-related articles. Frank is an expert in the air quality space with extensive experience testing, researching, and reviewing air purifiers, air conditioners, air filters, air fresheners, fans, and more. He also has over 4 years of experience with issues surrounding mold remediation, radon mitigation, moisture management, air duct systems, HVAC, and insulation.