How To Tell the Difference Between Mold and Mildew

6/16/2021 (Permalink)

Mold found after a pipe break.

How Do I Know If It's Mold Or Mildew?

Although many people use the words mold and mildew interchangeably, they're actually not the same thing. While they're both a type of fungus, they have several distinct characteristics. Here's how you can tell the difference between mold damage and mildew growth in your Asheville, NC home.

Appearance and Odor
Mold and mildew differ in appearance, making them easy to tell apart. Mold can come in several different colors:

• green
  
• red
  
• black
  
• blue
  
  

In contrast, mildew tends to be either white or gray. In addition, mold is usually raised and appears slimy or fuzzy, while mildew is flat and appears powdery.
Furthermore, mold and mildew differ in their odor. Mildew has a musty smell that can be reminiscent of damp socks, while mold tends to smell more powerful and pungent.

Areas of Growth
While mold and mildew both grow on natural materials like wood, leather or paper, temperature affects which type of fungus will grow. Mildew will usually grow at temperatures ranging from 77 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit, while mold grows at temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The reason why mold damage is harder to remove is that it burrows underneath surfaces, while mildew growth tends to occur surface-level.

Removal Process
A significant difference between mold and mildew is how to remove each. Although normal household cleaning products and a scrub brush can be used to get rid of mildew, it can be trickier to treat mold damage. Some species of mold can be eliminated using cleaning products such as white vinegar, Borax or bleach, while others will require professional assistance. Contacting mold remediation specialists can help you remove insidious mold growth in your Asheville, NC home.
Understanding the main differences between mold and mildew is key to both eliminating it and preventing its recurrence. Using this guide can help you to determine whether your home is experiencing mildew or mold growth.