At some point, most restoration contractors have used an antimicrobial coating or sealant on the job after the water damage clean up or mold remediation is complete. However, not all understand what antimicrobial coating or sealants are, how to properly use them and their functions. While our industry has acquired a better understanding in recent years in how these products can serve as useful and complementary tools, it is critical to all that restoration professionals reduce indiscriminate use, while encouraging proper application.
Antimicrobial coatings and sealants must contain an “active ingredient,” which is a natural substance that has been tested and registered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Any registered active ingredient is certified to help prevent future mold growth on surfaces that were previously affected but have been properly cleaned and dried. It is critical that these coatings and sealants not be used before the proper removal of mold contamination (through use of disinfectants not addressed here), or in place of regular cleaning and moisture control.