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What is the Difference Between Mold and Mildew? - Understanding Their Health Risks



 

Mold and mildew are found in nearly all air spaces. It doesn't matter if you clean your home every day, you will still have some mold spores throughout your home. The key is to not have over the recommended amount, which is usually the amount in the outside air in any given space.

On surfaces, mold and mildew are never wanted in the home as that suggests there is an issue. Mold and mildew are fungi that live on various surfaces and are hard to remove. They thrive in moist environments and spread easily. These microorganisms can quickly spread in your house and cause various health-related problems. People who are allergic to molds can face severe asthma attacks or respiratory problems.


Difference between Mold and Mildew


Mold and mildew are considered and treated as the same in the mold remediation industry, but they are different in many ways. Here are some key differences between the two fungi and how they can affect your health.


1. Difference in the Appearance of Mold and Mildew


The untrained eye typically can't find a difference in the appearance of mold and mildew. Mold can be black, white, or green in color, while mildew is mostly grey or white. Mildew usually grows in flat patterns, appear powdery or fluffy, and can easily be blown away by wind since it grows on surfaces. It can also enter your body through breathing. Mold appears in spots and irregular shapes. Molds consume organic material and live deeper into the material, but they can still mix with air and cause breathing problems.


2. Difference in the Effects of Mold and Mildew


Both mold and mildew need to be taken care of immediately as they can cause a lot of trouble in the long-run. Mildew usually affects plants and the indoor environment. They can cause coughing, headache, and respiratory problems. Molds can cause damage to a house’s structure as well as a person’s health. It's never safe for you to have mold in your home as it can cause various respiratory issues and diseases.


3. Difference in Mold and Mildew Testing


The short answer is that there is no difference. All fungi is treated and tested the same in the mold remediation industry. If you are not sure what type of fungi you are dealing with within your house, it's best to get the affected areas checked. You can either test the growth yourself or ask professional restoration services like EcoBak to test for mold and mildew. The best approach is to keep away from these toxic substances and let professionals do their job. It's fairly inexpensive compared to the medical bills that could amount from long term mold exposure.


Let EcoBak Take Care Of Your Mold And Mildew Problems


EcoBak restoration is a mold and mildew removing professional company. With an ample amount of experience in dealing with these toxic substances, EcoBak has a good reputation among its consumers. The company is IICRC-Certified with EPA registered products that remove mold and mildew for good.

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