When it comes to tackling mold problems in homes and commercial properties, two products often come to mind: RMR-86 and Mold Armor.
These solutions have garnered popularity for their efficiency, but how do they stack up against each other?
Let’s break it down.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Features | RMR-86 | Mold Armor |
| Speed of Action | Very Fast | Moderately Fast |
| Depth of Cleaning | Surface Level | Deep Cleaning |
| Primary Ingredient | Sodium Hypochlorite (Bleach) | Quaternary Ammonium Compounds |
| Odor | Strong | Strong |
| Usage on Different Surfaces | Versatile (usable on many surfaces) | Limited (not suitable for porous surfaces like unsealed wood or grout) |
| Prevents Future Growth | No | Yes |
| Ease of Use | Spray without scrubbing | Spray without scrubbing |
| Potential for Discoloration | Yes | Less Likely |
RMR-86: Fast and Effective Mold Stain Removal
RMR-86 is marketed as a fast-acting mold stain remover.
Its primary selling point is its ability to remove mold and mildew stains within seconds, without the need for scrubbing.
This swift action can be an incredible benefit in time-sensitive situations or when dealing with large areas.
Pros of RMR-86
- Efficiency: RMR-86 takes the crown when it comes to speed. A few sprays can make mold stains vanish in less than a minute.
- Versatility: This product is usable on a variety of surfaces, including wood, concrete, drywall, and more.
- Easy to use: The ready-to-use formula doesn’t need any mixing. Simply spray it onto the affected area.
Cons of RMR-86
- Hazardous ingredients: RMR-86 uses a sodium hypochlorite (bleach) base, which can be harmful if mishandled.
- Odor: The strong chemical smell may be off-putting and requires proper ventilation during application.
- Possible discoloration: The use of bleach may lead to discoloration of certain materials.
Mold Armor: Powerful and Deep Mold Remediation
Mold Armor takes a slightly different approach. While it’s still a spray-and-leave product, it focuses more on deep cleaning, providing a thorough, lasting solution.
Pros of Mold Armor
- Deep Cleaning: Mold Armor penetrates surfaces, killing mold spores at the root.
- Prevents Future Growth: This product doesn’t just remove mold, it also creates a barrier that prevents new spores from developing.
- Multi-purpose: Besides removing mold and mildew, Mold Armor also functions as a disinfectant, killing germs and bacteria.
Cons of Mold Armor
- Longer Contact Time: Unlike RMR-86, Mold Armor requires longer contact time. This could be a downside if you’re in a hurry.
- Limited Usage: Not suitable for porous surfaces like unsealed wood or unsealed grout.
- Strong Chemicals: Similar to RMR-86, Mold Armor contains harsh chemicals and demands proper ventilation.
Key Differences Between RMR-86 and Mold Armor
Although both RMR-86 and Mold Armor are designed to tackle mold issues, they exhibit a few distinct differences. Understanding these key disparities can help you make an informed choice.
- Speed Vs. Depth of Cleaning
RMR-86 is praised for its rapid action. Its claim to fame is the ability to eliminate mold stains in seconds, without the need for scrubbing. This makes it perfect for swift remediation or tackling larger affected areas. The emphasis here is on the speed of the visible mold stain removal.
Mold Armor, on the other hand, focuses on thorough, deep cleaning. While it might not make the stains disappear as instantly as RMR-86, it penetrates surfaces to kill mold spores at the root.
This makes Mold Armor an excellent choice if your priority is to ensure the complete eradication of mold and the prevention of future growth.
- Chemical Composition
Both products contain potent chemicals, which contribute to their effectiveness but also require careful handling.
RMR-86’s main ingredient is sodium hypochlorite (bleach), renowned for its stain-removing abilities. However, the use of bleach may result in discoloration of certain materials.
Additionally, bleach’s strong odor can be off-putting and may necessitate proper ventilation during use.
On the other hand, Mold Armor contains quaternary ammonium compounds, or “quats.” These chemicals are effective at killing mold, bacteria, and other pathogens.
However, similar to RMR-86, Mold Armor also demands proper ventilation due to its strong chemical odor.
- Application and Usage
RMR-86 offers straightforward application — simply spray it onto the affected area without the need for scrubbing. It’s versatile and can be used on a variety of surfaces, including wood, concrete, and drywall.
Mold Armor, while also easy to use, is not suitable for all surfaces. It is not recommended for use on porous surfaces like unsealed wood or unsealed grout.
Ultimately, the choice between RMR-86 and Mold Armor boils down to your specific requirements, the severity of the mold problem, and the type of surfaces involved.
It’s crucial to carefully consider these aspects and follow the safety instructions provided by the manufacturers for effective and safe mold remediation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
RMR-86 is primarily a mold stain remover. While it does kill surface mold, it’s not as effective at penetrating surfaces to kill mold at the root. For that, you might need a mold killer.
RMR-86’s main ingredient is sodium hypochlorite, the same active ingredient found in bleach. It’s formulated with additional components to enhance its effectiveness against mold and mildew.
The “best” mold removal product largely depends on your specific needs. For quick stain removal, RMR-86 is a great choice. For deeper cleaning and mold prevention, Mold Armor has proven to be very effective.
Both RMR-86 and Mold Armor can be effective at removing mold stains from drywall. However, if the mold has penetrated deeply, it may be necessary to replace the drywall or consult a professional mold remediation service. Always remember that safety comes first when dealing with mold.
Final Thoughts
The choice between RMR-86 and Mold Armor essentially depends on your specific needs. If you’re looking for quick mold stain removal, RMR-86 might be the way to go.
However, if you need deep cleaning and long-lasting prevention, Mold Armor could be a better choice.
