Blue Ridge Industrial Hygiene, Inc.

Whether to apply a biocide (for example bleach, Foster’s 80-20®, etc.) is a judgment call, based on the building material, the health of the occupants, and other factors. 

There is no consensus yet on whether biocides are useful or not.  Some mold experts will tell you they are a waste of money, and others swear by them.  Watch out for mold experts and remediation companies who want to sell you biocides!

BRIH takes a middle-of-the-road approach; there are be times when biocides may be useful, but in general they should be avoided.  If and when we do recommend a biocide we will recommend only those with scientific support for their claims, and you can rest assured that we do not make any profit from the sale.

Biocides are chemicals that are designed to kill a living organism; chances are they are not very good for you, either.  Special safety precautions may be needed when applying biocides.

Evidence of moisture damage and fungal growth on a box of HVAC filters.

To Kill or Not to Kill… Should you use      a biocide?