What can surface samples reveal about a given area?

Surface samples are primarily analyzed to identify the presence of mold spores within a given area. These samples are collected from surfaces where mold growth is suspected or visible, such as walls, ceilings, and floors. The analysis can reveal not only the presence of mold but also the types of mold spores present, which can inform about the potential health risks and the severity of the mold issue.

While the other factors listed might be relevant in different contexts, they are not directly deduced from surface sampling. For example, identifying the type of building materials requires different types of inspection and assessment, air quality levels involve air sampling methods, and evaluating cleaning effectiveness typically requires observing results over time or through specific testing protocols after cleaning procedures. Thus, surface samples offer critical insights specifically into the presence and types of mold in the environment they are taken from.