Is Your Deerfield Beach Home Experiencing Mildew or Mold?

4/25/2021 (Permalink)

Mold can quickly set and fester, creating bigger problems the longer it is present.

Mold vs. Mildew 

Distinguishing whether your Deerfield Beach home is experiencing mold or mildew can be tricky. Both mold and mildew are considered fungi, thriving in moisture ridden areas. While at times similar in appearance and areas of growth, mold and mildew pose different risks as well as different measures of removing them. 

What is Mildew? 

Mildew is typically less variant in colors compared to mold, showing up as a white or gray fungus. Mildew can be found in kitchens, basements, bathrooms, on floors, plants or furniture. There may be a slight smell associated with mildew, as the fungi releases gasses into the air. This gas is what makes the surrounding fabric and other materials smell as well.

The Difference Between Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew are different in their long-term effects. Mold tends to be more damaging to surfaces or material, including structural materials. Plants and other foods are the only items susceptible to the effects of mildew. The damage caused by mildew is nearly non-existent, making it preferable to deal with in comparison to mold.

Appearance and where each fungus is found separates mold from mildew as well. Mildew is usually powdery, found growing on flat surfaces.  Floor or bathroom tiles, wet fabric and other flat, wet surfaces are prone to mildew. Mold is slimy in texture, differing in color, usually black or green. Mold is also found in and under surfaces, which can make it harder to notice. Under floorboards, insides appliances or HVACs, crawl spaces and ceilings all can harbor mold.

The ease of cleaning each fungus also helps to identify which type you are dealing with. Mildew is much easier to clean, usually calling for specialty house cleaners and a little elbow grease. Mold is not a job for anyone but a professional to tackle. Mold can cause health effects, which means dealing with it takes a lot of precaution and expertise.  

If you believe your home is dealing with mildew, it is still smart to reach out to a professional restoration company who has dealt with mold problems. A professional crew can decipher whether your issues is mold or mildew and provide recommendations on ridding your home of either.