Question from Paula
Hi Debra,
I’m concerned about long-term health dangers in biocides. I’m having work done on my bathroom that will include sheetrock, joint tape, joint compound, primer and paint.
My contractor recommends using the mold-resistant or moisture-resistant version of all those products, and adding a mildewcide to the paint.
Debra, I realize that you prefer plaster walls, but if you were using the above materials,
would you choose mold-resistant products…or would you take the risk of future mold problems?
Thanks, Debra. Your help is very appreciated!
Debra’s Answer
The problem with answering this question is that biocides are not one chemical, but a class of chemicals of varying degrees of toxicity. Where I wouldn’t want you to use triclosan, for example, there would be no harm in using a product that used silver as the antimicrobial because silver in a paint, for example, doesn’t outgas.
The first thing we need to know is what are the biocides used in each of the products and then I can answer your question. Feel free to write back with that information.
Click on the image Debra’s Guide to Creating a Green Bathroom to see how I remodeled my bathroom in 2007. No biocides. No mold problems.
