Choosing a testing laboratory is an important decision. The right lab should offer more than the ability to perform a test. It should have the technical expertise, standards knowledge, capabilities, and responsiveness to support your needs from the first conversation through the final report.
What should you look for when choosing a laboratory?
Technical Experience
Testing is only as valuable as the expertise behind it. A laboratory should have experienced technical professionals who understand the products and applications being evaluated and can help identify an appropriate testing path.
At IPA Laboratories, our engineers and scientists bring more than 125 years of combined experience in product evaluation and research. Our multidisciplinary team works across a wide range of industries and, when needed, draws on collaboration with Clemson University and other partners.
Standards Expertise
The standard used to test a product matters, and so does understanding how that standard is developed and applied.
When evaluating a laboratory, consider whether its technical team is actively involved in the development of standards that affect your industry. IPA Laboratories staff participate in and lead more than 20 international standards committees, providing firsthand insight into ASTM, ANSI, ISO, and other standards.
That expertise is particularly valuable for manufacturers navigating different requirements across U.S. and international markets.
Capabilities That Match Your Needs
Testing needs can extend beyond a single product or test method. Look for a laboratory that can support both your immediate needs and questions that may arise as a project develops.
IPA Laboratories offers a broad range of testing and research capabilities, including materials testing, slip resistance, sustainability, life sciences, analytical chemistry, microbiological testing, life cycle cost analysis, certification, and custom testing. Our materials expertise spans ceramic tile, glass, stone, pavers, slabs, countertop surfaces, composite flooring products, raw materials, tableware, and installation materials.
When an established test method doesn't fully address a particular question, our team can also develop customized testing programs based on the needs of the project.
Timely Results and Responsive Service
Testing is often part of a larger timeline. Manufacturers may be waiting to advance a product, certification deadlines may be approaching, or project decisions may depend on timely data.
Turnaround time and communication should be part of the conversation when selecting a laboratory. IPA Laboratories is committed to providing fast, trusted results without sacrificing the accuracy and rigor expected from an independent laboratory.
Customers also have direct access to our team to discuss testing options, ask questions about the testing process, and keep projects moving. Responsive customer service is an important part of the laboratory experience.
Independence and Industry Knowledge
Finally, consider the credibility and independence of the laboratory producing your data. Accreditation, technical qualifications, and industry involvement can all be important factors.
IPA Laboratories provides ISO 17025-accredited testing to ASTM, ANSI, and ISO standards. Our involvement in these standards activities further connects our team to the testing methods and requirements shaping hard-surface industries. Our connection to the ceramic tile industry also runs deep. For decades, we have provided testing, certification support, and technical expertise to manufacturers and other industry stakeholders.
Choosing the Right Laboratory
There isn't one factor that determines whether a laboratory is the right fit. The best choice depends on the needs of your product, project, and organization.
Technical experience, standards expertise, testing capabilities, timely results, responsive service, and independent data are all worth considering.
For more than 60 years, IPA Laboratories has brought these qualities together to support manufacturers and organizations with independent testing and research.
Looking for a testing partner?
Contact us at testing@ipalaboratories.com or visit ipalaboratories.com to learn more about our services and request a quote.
