The Difference between Mold and Mildew

This is a burning question that everyone asks. However, mold and mildew are very similar and both need to be looked after with caution. The characteristics between mold vs mildew are comparable but what it comes down to is that they are different types of fungi. Both need the same environment to grow; a damp / wet surface, and lack of air flow. Mold typically grows on organic substances such as food, drywall, and fabrics, where mildew is common on bathroom walls / tiles, grout and windows.

Some mold and mildews can be removed using a mold/mildew control cleaning product but the majority needs to be handled by a professional.
 

Mildew Characteristics:

• Powdery substance
• White, black, grey in colour
• Typically grows in a flat pattern
   

Mold Characteristics:

• Fuzzy or flat substance
• Grey, green, black, brown in colour
• Can form in many shapes and patterns
   

Health Symptoms:

Health Symptoms related to mold growth or mildew growth are similar as well. The longer the exposure to the fungi, the more intense these symptoms may appear. Some health symptoms to mold/mildew are:

• Cold Like symptoms; sneezing, congestion, coughing
• Rash or Irritated skin
• Respiratory / Trouble breathing
• Worsening asthma symptoms
   

Common Growth Areas:

Growth on grout and tiles in the bathroom is one of the most common areas. This is okay for you to clean as long as the tiles look to be in good shape and are not pushing out from the wall. If you notice the tiles shifting, this indicates that there is water in behind the walls and there could be a much bigger issue. To help prevent growth from coming back, make sure the bathroom has a working exhaust fan and is left on for at least 30 minutes after a shower. You can wipe the tiles down with a squeegee after a shower to rid of any access water on the walls.

Another common area is mold on the window sills or mildew on the window sills. This is caused from either a buildup of condensation or the area not being cleaned properly. Blinds and shades act as a barrier from air flow and dust and dirt can collect, given mold prime location to grow. Ensure that they are left open for good airflow and that there is no furniture places directly against the window. If you notice moisture collect on the windows, then wipe off with a towel.

Mold on drywall, mold on plaster, mold on studs and mold on framing all needs to be handled by a professional company for mold removal in Toronto, Mississauga, Ottawa, Montreal, Edmonton, Vancouver, and more.

Click Here> For areas where mold and mildew can grow and how to prevent it.

We are here to help!

At Canada’s Restoration Services, we have highly trained and certified staff to not only remove the mold or mildew, but identify the source and how to prevent it in the future. We offer free inspections on all visible mold where we will provide a free estimate on the removal.