Why is the use of biocides in mold remediation generally discouraged?

The use of biocides in mold remediation is generally discouraged primarily due to their toxicity to humans and pets, as well as their limited effectiveness in eliminating mold spores. Biocides are chemical agents designed to kill living organisms, including mold; however, many of these substances can pose serious health risks to occupants and remediation workers if not handled properly.

Due to their potential harmful effects, the use of biocides should be carefully considered, and alternative methods such as physical removal or proper moisture control are often preferred in mold remediation practices. Furthermore, biocides do not address the root cause of mold growth—typically moisture problems—making them an inadequate and sometimes dangerous solution.

The other options either misrepresent the role of biocides or do not capture the primary concerns associated with their use in mold remediation. For example, while it is true that biocides can be ineffective against certain types of mold, stating that they are ineffective against all types oversimplifies the issue. Similarly, while biocides should not substitute for physical removal, suggesting that they are beneficial to building materials does not align with the overall goal of ensuring a safe and healthy environment. Thus, the reasoning behind discouraging biocides centers on their toxicity and limited effectiveness