Mold vs. Mildew: Understanding the Key Differences
Are you mistakenly calling that white fuzzy growth in your shower harmless mildew? Well, think again! Mistaking mold for its harmless cousin, mildew, can cost you thousands of dollars! Plus, these toxic black molds can destroy your drywall and trigger asthma attacks.
On the other hand, mildew, which is often white and powdery, will just stain the surfaces.
The situation can quickly worsen if you ignore treating molds by confusing them with mildews. But how will you know the difference between the two to see if you need professional mold remediation ?
Don't worry; we're here to help you recognize the differences between mildew and molds in this blog in some easy and simple ways!
What Is Mold?
Mold is a type of fungus that grows on any organic matter, such as leather and paper. You might recognize them for their fuzzy, dark green, or red color and raised appearances. Mold can also spread through the air as spores. Mold spores move around the air but only settle in moist regions. From there, they grow in different directions by eating through the ceilings and walls.
Are Molds Harmful?
Molds are quite dangerous for your health and can especially affect children, older adults, and people with allergies. One way to find out if you've got mold in your commercial or residential property is by looking for some symptoms in your health, like:
- Watery eyes,
- Headaches,
- Coughing,
- Sore throat,
- Congestion, and so on.
What Is Mildew?
Mildew is another type of fungus that is also considered a part of the mold family. You can recognize mildew due to its powdery appearance. You might often find them growing in clusters, and they are tiny in appearance.
Mildew is not as harmful to your health as molds are. But you still need to be careful to prevent excessive mildew exposure, as it can cause:
- A runny nose,
- A cough
- Itchy or watery eyes, etc.
Difference between mold and mildew
Here’s a list of all the ways you can differentiate between mold and mildew.
1. Color
While mold is dark green, grey, brown, or red in color, mildew starts its journey in white and then turns to black.
2. Rooting
Mold growth is usually characterized by deep roots. Their roots penetrate deep into whatever organic matter they are growing on. On the other hand, mildew roots are very shallow. They can hardly penetrate the region they are growing in and would mostly settle above.
3. Structure
Mold feels fuzzy or grainy when touched, whereas mildew grows in clusters of white dots, which are incredibly thick.
4. Smell
One can differentiate between mold and mildew based on their distinct smell. While mold emits a strong smell of rotting meat, mildew just smells musty and damp.
5. Health Hazards
Mold can produce toxins and irritants that can massively impact your immune system. Mildew, however, is known for causing limited and minor respiratory issues.
That being said, it is also important to note that both mold and mildew can cause allergic reactions, which can have severe long-term results if not treated properly.
6. Places Where They Grow
Mold grows on organic materials that are moist. They can even live in extremely low temperatures. Bathrooms are the perfect place for mold to grow since they provide them with the appropriate moisture and temperature. Appliances like washing machines and refrigerators can also host mold since they are very close to the plumbing line. Moreover, the darkness allows them to spread without hindrance or anyone noticing until it's too late.
Mildew can also be found in bathrooms and around appliances, but unlike mold, it grows on the surface level.
7. Growth Speed
You might notice molds grow within 24-48 hours of water exposure. But mildew will take weeks to become visible.
What Causes the Growth of Molds & Mildews?
While both mildew and molds can have different characteristics, the main reasons for their growth are quite similar. If you know the reasons for their growth, you can easily stop them from further spreading.
- Excess Moisture: Both mildews and molds love leaky pipes and high-humidity areas!
- Poor Ventilation: If your basements, attics, or bathrooms have poor ventilation, you're basically inviting molds or mildews to that area!
- Darkness: Molds and mildews both love to hide in dark places (under the sink, behind walls, and so on).
- Organic Materials: While you might find molds on wood, drywall, or fabric, mildews will cling to tile grout or shower curtains as both of these fungi feast on organic materials.
All these conditions support the growth of mildews and molds!
How Can You Clean Mold and Mildew?
When it comes to cleaning:
- Mold is extremely hard to get rid of since they have well-penetrated roots. You cannot eliminate it with basic household cleaners. Mold requires professional cleaning since it also entails drywall removal, and sometimes replacement is necessary. So, it is best to contact professional services that offer mold abatement in Sacramento.
- Mildew, on the other hand, can be cleaned easily since it doesn't root deeply. You can use an over-the-counter cleaner or a DIY vinegar mixture along with scrubbers and brushes to get rid of the mildew. Rinse repeatedly and change the sponge or scrubber to avoid further contamination.
In addition, make sure that you wear the proper protective gear to avoid any contact. If you cannot seem to get rid of them, it is important that you reach out to a professional company that offers both mildew and mold remediation.
How To Prevent Mold And Mildew Growth in Residential And Commercial Properties?
To make sure your home does not become a breeding ground for both mold and mildew, here are some tips to keep you safe.
1. Ensure appliances, nooks, and crannies are clean and dry.
2. Improve ventilation in remote regions or affected areas. You may use exhaust fans for this.
3. Keep your humidifier or HVAC system unblocked.
4. Make sure the vents for your clothes dryer are clean.
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Takeaway
While molds and mildews might sound similar, they're very different in nature! Both of them differ in their characteristics, like color, smell, roots, structure, growing place, and so on. Also, molds are way more harmful to your health than mildews are. Plus, while you can get rid of mildew with DIY solutions, mold removal will need professional expertise. So, if you're facing the issue of molds in your commercial or residential property, call a mold removal company right away!
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Spotted Strange Mold Growth In Your Home? Get It Cleared Professionally with JM Environmental, Inc.
Mold or mildew can both be irritating if you already have respiratory issues and a compromised immune system. But with JM Environmental's three decades of experience in hazardous material abatement and demolition, especially mold remediation, removal, and abatement, you don't have to worry anymore!
Our efficient and reliable service makes us your perfect choice for mold removal in Sacramento. Our professionals undergo rigorous training to make your safety and satisfaction our top priority, as we promise to deliver nothing less than the best results.
No need to compromise on the safety of your health! Reach out to us to get rid of molds once and for all! Contact us today!