Pro Lab Asbestos Test Kit
The Pro-Lab Asbestos Test Kit is one of the most widely available retail do-it-yourself sampling kits in North America, sold extensively through home improvement centers and online marketplaces. Engineered to provide homeowners and property managers with an accessible mechanism for screening suspected building materials, the kit provides collection bags, sample packaging, safety instructions, and mail-in laboratory paperwork. However, utilizing the Pro-Lab kit effectively requires understanding its fee structure, safe collection protocols, analytical limitations, and laboratory turnaround expectations.
Kit Contents, Packaging, and Retail Fee Structure
When purchasing a Pro-Lab Asbestos Test Kit (Model AS108), consumers receive an instructional booklet, a chain of custody submission form, a plastic sampling bag, and a pre-addressed postage-paid mailing envelope. The initial retail purchase price typically ranges between $10 and $20. However, consumers must recognize that this retail purchase price covers only the collection packaging; it does not include the mandatory laboratory analysis fee required to examine the sample.
Upon mailing the physical sample to Pro-Lab's certified testing facility in Weston, Florida, the user must enclose a separate standard laboratory analysis fee (historically $40 per sample for standard 7-day turnaround). Expedited analysis options, such as 3-day or 24-hour turnaround, require additional surcharges. Failing to include the lab processing fee or omitting signed payment documentation will cause the laboratory to hold the sample without processing, delaying critical renovation timelines.
Examine the total cost breakdown and service specifications of the Pro-Lab test kit:
| Cost Component | Typical Dollar Amount | Included Service | Notes and Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Retail Box Purchase | $10 to $20 | Sampling bags, mailer, safety guide | Purchased at hardware store or online |
| Standard Lab Analysis Fee | $40 per sample | PLM analysis (approx. 5-7 business days) | Enclosed with submission form |
| Express 3-Day Rush Fee | $60 total lab fee | Expedited PLM analysis | Requires clear marking on submission card |
| Emergency 24-Hour Rush Fee | $80 total lab fee | Same-day electronic email report | Requires expedited courier shipping |
| Secondary Sample Testing | $40 per additional bag | Testing multiple distinct materials | Must be bagged and logged separately |
Sampling Safety Protocols and Step-by-Step Execution
The most significant hazard associated with any DIY test kit—including Pro-Lab—is the risk of releasing airborne fibers during sample extraction. Homeowners must understand that Pro-Lab provides only collection materials; the user is solely responsible for collecting the physical sample safely. Under no circumstances should suspect materials be sawed, ground, or scraped while completely dry, as doing so immediately liberates respirable fibers into the home's ambient air.
To execute safe collection, the user must wear a NIOSH-approved P100 respirator and disposable gloves. Turn off central heating and air conditioning units to eliminate air currents. The sampling area should be lightly misted with amended water (water mixed with a few drops of dish detergent) using a spray bottle. Using a sharp utility knife or chisel, extract a small one-square-inch specimen (or one tablespoon of fibrous insulation), place it inside the Pro-Lab plastic bag, seal it tightly, and wipe the exterior clean before boxing.
Review mandatory safety controls when collecting samples with the Pro-Lab kit:
| Sampling Stage | Safety Requirement | Operational Objective | Crucial Caution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airflow Control | Shut off central HVAC system | Prevents circulating released dust | Never sample while air vents are blowing |
| Respiratory Protection | NIOSH P100 half-face mask | Filters sub-micron mineral fibers | Standard paper dust masks are useless |
| Moisture Application | Amended water surfactant spray | Traps dust particles in water droplets | Do not soak electrical wiring or boxes |
| Specimen Containment | Double-seal plastic ziplock | Prevents postal cross-contamination | Clean exterior of bag with damp towel |
| Surface Sealing | Duct tape or spray paint over cut | Seals raw exposed asbestos edges | Never leave cut material raw and exposed |
Interpreting Pro-Lab Reports and Evaluating Practical Limitations
Pro-Lab's accredited laboratory processes bulk samples using Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) under EPA Method 600/R-93/116. When analysis is complete, the client receives an electronic Certificate of Analysis via email detailing whether asbestos was detected, the specific mineral types present (such as chrysotile or amosite), and the estimated percentage concentration. If the concentration exceeds 1%, the material is legally classified as an Asbestos-Containing Material (ACM).
While the Pro-Lab kit is convenient for testing a single popcorn ceiling or floor tile, it possesses inherent practical limitations. A single kit tests only one material; evaluating a whole house requiring testing of flooring, duct wrap, siding, and drywall mud requires buying multiple kits or paying multiple laboratory fees. Furthermore, DIY sampling results may not satisfy strict chain-of-custody documentation requirements mandated for commercial real estate transactions or school AHERA compliance.
How to Use the Pro-Lab Asbestos Test Kit Correctly
A complete step-by-step procedure for utilizing the Pro-Lab test kit safely and submitting samples for analysis.
Purchase Kit and Review All Instructions
Unpack the Pro-Lab AS108 kit, carefully read the safety warnings, and complete the paper submission card with your contact details.
Don Protective Safety Equipment
Put on a NIOSH-approved P100 half-mask respirator, safety glasses, and disposable gloves, and shut down your home's central HVAC system.
Mist the Sampling Area Thoroughly
Spray the suspect material with a fine mist of water and dish soap to completely suppress any airborne dust during sample cutting.
Extract a One-Square-Inch Sample
Using a sharp utility knife, cut a small one-inch square sample (or one tablespoon of insulation) and place it directly into the Pro-Lab plastic bag.
Seal, Package, and Mail with Payment
Tape over the cut area on the wall, seal the sample bag, enclose the mandatory $40 lab fee and submission card in the pre-addressed mailer, and mail to Pro-Lab.
Frequently Asked Questions (8 Questions Answered)
Q1: Does the Pro-Lab asbestos test kit price include lab fees?
No. The retail box price ($10 to $20) includes only collection supplies. A separate mandatory lab fee of $40 per sample must be enclosed when submitting to Pro-Lab.
Q2: Is Pro-Lab's testing laboratory accredited?
Yes. Pro-Lab utilizes an environmental testing laboratory accredited by AIHA and state health agencies, using EPA-approved Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM).
Q3: How long does it take to get results from Pro-Lab?
Standard turnaround takes approximately 5 to 7 business days from when the lab receives the sample. Rush 3-day and 24-hour turnaround options are available for extra fees.
Q4: Can I test multiple materials in one Pro-Lab kit?
You cannot mix different materials in one bag. You can submit multiple separate bags in one mailer, but you must pay an additional $40 lab fee for each separate sample.
Q5: What should I do after cutting a sample from my wall or ceiling?
Immediately seal the exposed cut edge with a piece of heavy duct tape or spray it with clear acrylic sealer to prevent fibers from flaking off later.
Q6: Is a DIY Pro-Lab test legally valid for selling a house?
While it provides accurate information for homeowners, many real estate contracts, lenders, and municipalities require an on-site survey conducted by a licensed AHERA inspector.
Q7: Can Pro-Lab test air samples for asbestos?
No. The retail Pro-Lab kit is strictly for solid bulk materials like ceilings, flooring, and pipe insulation. Testing air requires specialized electric high-volume pumps.
Q8: How do I receive the test results from Pro-Lab?
Pro-Lab emails a certified PDF laboratory report to the email address provided on your submission card, complete with fiber percentages and mineral varieties.
Final Thoughts & Key Takeaways
In conclusion, understanding pro lab asbestos test kit provides essential clarity, practical strategies, and actionable advice. By incorporating these foundational insights, adhering to verified safety guidelines, and following structured best practices, you ensure reliable, long-term outcomes while preventing common mistakes. Stay informed, consult certified professionals when needed, and maintain consistent quality care.