Soil quality testing costs vary widely depending on the type of testing involved. It's important to verify that the correct type of test is used.. A basic test will measure pH levels and the presence of organic trace minerals. A more advanced test can check for toxins and provide an advanced carbon analysis. Each type of test ranges from $10 to $20 in cost. Screening tests for toxins and environmental cation tests for farming can range from $30 to $50 per test. There are additional costs for expedited services from labs that range from $30 to $100 in some areas.

Some soil testing services offer extra reporting and calculation labor visuals for large-scale applications at an additional charge per hour. A prime example of this would be an extensive landscaping project that involves an in-ground pool or backyard pond. A soil test can make or break a construction project. It's important to determine the exact construction requirements and possible failure points to find the right test. For example, home construction and renovation may require additional tests to determine the dense capacity of the soil to hold a footing.

Testing the soil around an older, urban property can show trace elements of lead from the exhaust of pre-unleaded gasoline vehicles. It can also determine if there are pollutants in the aquifer of a private well. Pollution testing will determine if the soil has forms of E. coli and Coliform bacteria that reside in the soil and leach into groundwater. This type of testing can help determine placement of wells to pump potable water.

Most tests require multiple readings to determine the root cause of an issue. A simple pH and trace element test may not be enough to determine why nothing is growing well in a particular area. Sometimes tests will need to be doubled up with other tests that negate their results in order to avoid false positives. For example, a test that doesn't detect nitrates in the soil can create a false positive on groundwater readings for trace chemicals. A professional lawn expert can help you determine which tests are needed for your particular situation.