Porous material with mold growth

• A. Should be replaced
• B. Should be disinfected
• C. Should be dried
• D. Should be sealed

Answer: (A)

When mold has taken hold in porous materials, replacing the material is the most reliable way to remove the contamination. Porous substrates—such as drywall, carpet, insulation, and some fabrics—trap mold within their structure. Cleaning or disinfecting only treats the surface and may not reach embedded mold spores or hyphae, so the growth can continue or quickly return. Drying addresses moisture, but without removing the mold-containing substrate, the problem often persists. Sealing can hide the issue and trap moisture and spores inside, potentially making things worse. Replacing the affected porous material eliminates the source of mold and reduces the chance of recurrence when paired with addressing moisture control.