Mold and mildew have many similarities; they both thrive in warm, moist conditions including areas with water damage due to a busted pipe or a leaking roof, along with areas in your home that are prone to continuous moisture such as bathrooms and kitchens. All of these examples and many others can lead to the growth of mildew and mold. Both mildew and mold in a home can cause illness and may even damage your homes structure. The knowledgeable mold remediation specialists at American Hometown Services have provided the following information to explain the differences between mildew and mold.

Mold & Mildew are Fungi

Both mildew and mold are fungi. Fungi can live and thrive in many different places including the soil and vegetation in your yard and on any surfaces that are constantly exposed to moist conditions such as your bathroom walls and ceiling. All fungi reproduce by producing spores which can spread very quickly creating additional mold.

What is Mildew?

Mildew is basically mold in its early stage of life. You will often hear the word mildew used to describe mold. Mildew is whitish-grey in color and has a powdery feel that can often be found on plants. Mildew is also best described as surface fungi with a preference for plants, food, wood and other fibrous types of items including: drywall, insulation, cardboard & paper products, wallpaper, and fabrics including your clothes.

Types of Mold

In what ways is mildew different from mold? Mold can be found in a wide array of colors including green & grey to red and brown & black. Mold can have several different appearances including fuzzy, flat and slimy. Green slimy mold is particularly prevalent in areas such as your vinyl siding and can also be found in shady areas of your deck. Indoors, mold can be found in the home on grout, tiled floors and walls and other areas in the kitchen and bathroom. In fact your bathroom is particularly susceptible due to high humidity levels and even more so if you have inadequate ventilation.

Mold & Mildew Health Effects & Problems

What kind of health concerns can you expect from mildew and mold? The white powdery mildew that can be found on the leaves of a plant isn’t typically dangerous unless you are allergic to the mold spores. If you come into contact with mildew, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and avoid touching your face especially your eyes, nose and mouth.

Exposure to mildew or mold can cause the following reactions in individuals who are susceptible:

• Stuffy nose
• Eye irritations including red, watery eyes
• Skin irritations such as itching
• Fever
• Shortness of breath
• Coughing
• Respiratory issues including bronchitis and asthma

Mold Inspection & Removal

Family members suffering from chronic upper respiratory issues and compromised immune systems are at a higher risk for complications if exposed. If you have mold and mildew in your home and it is left untreated, it can cause long-term health risks along with damage to the property. Mold can be found almost anywhere in a building, even in places where you can’t see it such as behind your drywall and insulation. To avoid additional damage, it is imperative that the mold be located and completely eradicated.

Mold Detection, Inspection, Remediation & Removal in Quincy, Macomb, Hamilton, Warsaw & East Alton Illinois | Hannibal, Missouri and Norman, Oklahoma

If your home or business has been subjected to water damage either accidental or caused by natural disaster including flooding contact the professionals at American Hometown Services immediately. Mold can develop within 24 to 48 hours; trust our professional technicians to develop a comprehensive mold remediation plan that is designed to completely rid your home of mildew and mold.