Mold and mildew are commonly confused with one another, yet these two substances are quite different. Mildew is certainly problematic, but it is nowhere near as harmful to your living space as mold. Below, we highlight the differences between these two substances to help local homeowners and property managers better understand each.
Mold Basics
Mold has the potential to ruin nearly everything its spores touch. Mold can lead to problems with breathing, excessive fatigue, confusion, sneezing, sore throat, rashes, and more. If you feel as though you are coming down with the flu, the real problem might be mold. If the mold on your property is black, it has the potential to lead to harsh respiratory issues such as bleeding in the lungs. This is precisely why early detection of mold and timely mold removal in Boca Raton is so important.
Mildew Basics
Mildew is similar to mold in that both are fungi. However, mildew is not nearly as problematic or invasive as most types of mold. Though mildew has the potential to spur allergic reactions similar to mold, it is much easier to thwart. Mildew is commonly found in moisture-laden areas. This gray-white substance sometimes turns brown. Mildew is powdery, flat, and comparably easy to clean as it strictly resides along the surface of a material. As an example, it is quite common for mildew to live on bathroom tiles. If you notice powder-like specks in the corner of your shower, you likely have mildew in your home.
How to Proceed after Finding Mold and/or Mildew
If you notice mold and/or mildew in your living space, the worst thing you can do is assume it is perfectly normal and there is nothing you can do about it. Leave the mildew/mold in place and it is only a matter of time until they cause health problems. The spores of both fungi will spread throughout your home upon contact. This is precisely why you need professional mold removal in Boca Raton, FL as soon as possible. We will test for the concentration level of mold spores before and after mold removal in Boca Raton is performed. This way, you can see exactly how much mold/mildew is present before and after we work our magic.
The Mold Removal Process
Mold removal is somewhat of a misnomer as it is impossible to remove all mold from your living space. Our mold specialists will remove as much mold as we can, yet you should know there will always be some leftover mold and mildew no matter how long or hard we work. What matters most is that the vast majority of the mold and mildew are removed.
The first step to removing mold and mildew is to address all sources of moisture in the home. If these moisture sources are not addressed, mold is likely to return. It will certainly help to keep your indoor humidity level at or below 45% during and after the mold removal effort as elevated indoor humidity spikes mold growth. Let us evaluate your mold/mildew problem through analysis, questions, and testing. Once we understand the level of mold present in your living space, we will know the types of equipment and the number of mold removal specialists necessary to get the job done right.
Assessing the Mold Damage
Determining the extent of the mold damage is easier said than done. Though some mold and mildew have obvious visible signs, these nasty fungi are not always in plain sight. Mold relies on water and cellulose for sustenance so it is likely to be hidden from view. We have the technologies, tools, and experience necessary to identify mold and mildew as well as concealed water sources.
Containing the Mold
Now that the mold/mildew problem is identified, it is time to contain it. Advanced containment strategies such as negative air chambers are often used to isolate the contaminated part of the home or business with negative air pressure and physical barriers. This approach to mold removal ensures mold spores do not spread when cleanup is performed. It will also help to turn off the home’s cooling and heating systems as well as the fans so mold does not spread.
Filtering the Air
Though mildew is nowhere near as harmful to health as mold, it is still necessary to remove as much of both substances as possible. The air in the areas where mold and mildew grew should also be filtered. Our high-tech filtration equipment empowers us to capture tiny mold spores directly out of the air. From HEPA vacuums to air scrubbers and beyond, we do everything necessary to stop the spread of mold spores as we perform mold removal. In the end, there is not much difference between mold and mildew removal. Both substances should be removed from your living or working space for you to live in good health.
Do Mildew and Mold-Laden Belongings Have to be Removed?
Our customers often ask if it is necessary to remove materials laden with mildew and/or mold. The level of mildew/mold growth ultimately dictates the details of the removal and remediation processes. If materials in your home are infested with mildew or mold, it might be necessary to remove them. Everything from carpeting to drywall might have to be replaced to ensure your living space is safe and conducive to continued health.
Contact Erica's Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Restorationn
If you are even slightly suspicious your home or business has mold or mildew, be proactive by contacting our Boca Raton plumbers. We perform mold removal in Boca Raton with the overarching aim of returning living and working spaces to normal. Give us a call at (561) 782-2779 to schedule an appointment.
