ULV Fogging

ULV stands for ultra low volume. ULV fogging equipment is used by the restoration industry to apply disinfectants, biocides, and fungicides. Pathogenic microbes such as virus, bacteria, and fungi cause many airborne or direct contact diseases. By applying disinfectants and biocides it is possible to reduce or eliminate the number of pathogens present in a given area.

Any time your home is damaged by water, whether water from outside or water from a broken appliance or pipe, there is a good chance for pathogen amplification. The problem should be addressed by a water damage professional that understands the health risks that may be involved.

4 Most Common Pathogen Types

All pathogens have the ability to make you sick. Sometimes your body can defend against them on its own, sometimes medical assistance is required. In any case they need to be avoided. Below is a brief description of the four more common pathogens we deal with:

• Viruses – these pathogens invade host cells and then use the cell components to reproduce. As this happens the host cells are damaged or destroyed. Antibiotics do not kill viruses and are therefore ineffective against them.
• Bacteria – these are single cell microorganisms that can live in almost any environment. Many times bacterial infections occur when a virus attacks your body. Antibiotics are effective against bacteria however, some bacterial strains have developed resistance to antibiotics.
• Fungi – of the millions of species we know of, only 300 or so can cause sickness in humans. They are found virtually everywhere and can be very hard to kill. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a lot of information concerning mold and mold sickness
• Parasites – these are organisms that resemble tiny animals. They live in and on a host. They can be spread through soil, water, food, blood, or insect bites.

How ULV Foggers Work

ULV foggers produce small droplets of solution in the 8-15 micron size. These droplets can stay suspended in the air for anywhere from 5-6 hours which allows for good penetration of affected materials. ULVs are great for treating hard to reach areas like deep into attics and crawlspaces. Also, the odds of over-wetting materials is very low.

Unlike thermal foggers, ULVs do not heat their solutions before spraying them. That is their only downside, ULV fogged solutions will not penetrate as well as a thermal fogger’s will so they are less affective for certain odor control, like smoke for instance.

ULV Fogging Procedures

To provide safety for residents and workers, follow these general guidelines:

1. All residents and pets should have been evacuated.
2. Notify the local fire department - neighbors may see “smoke” and think fire.
3. Post “Do Not Enter” warnings on all doors.
4. Shut off all open flames, including all pilot lights.
5. Disable smoke detectors.
6. Cover or remove food items
7. Close all exterior doors and windows and seal any vents.

ULV Fogging and Mold

In most cases, when fogging as part of a mold remediation, a biocide will be used as the fogging solution. The area to be fogged should be pre-cleaned to remove as much soil and organic matter (mold) as possible. The surfaces should come into contact with enough chemical to become wet. After fogging, allow an adequate amount of time for the biocide to dwell on the surfaces.

A biocide that is used in this manner is not a disinfectant. The EPA states that a biocide only disinfects when it is used on non-porous surfaces. Using a biocide for mold remediation on porous surfaces is used for cleaning and deodorization only. You should never attempt to kill mold, it should be physically removed. A biocide will only inhibit further mold growth. After ULV fogging has been completed, structural materials should be dried back down to acceptable levels.

Professional Help Is Available

Water Mold Fire Restoration specialists are fully trained and equipped with the highest quality fogging equipment to handle all of your requirements. Our precision foggers are also well suited for use in any sensitive areas. If you are looking for a cost-effective fogging service that treats safety as its highest priority, you have come to the right company. Call us 24/7 at 800-905-0277 or email us at help@watermoldfire.net. Our initial inspection and estimate are always free of charge.