Diagnosing Mold And Mildew Problems

Mold Growth Requiring a Mold Inspector to Diagnose the Problem

Besides making your home smell, mold and mildew can do a lot of damage before you realize it. If you spot signs of mold, diagnosing and dealing with the problem early will protect your home and your health. Understanding the difference between mold and mildew is a good place to start.

Know What Mold You're Dealing with

Around 12 genera of fungi commonly grow in homes. Both mold and mildew are fungi, but mildew is a type of mold. The most obvious difference between mold and mildew is appearance. Mold is thick and fuzzy and grows in a variety of colors on many different materials. Mildew grows in a thin, powdery layer and is typically grey, white, or light yellow. True mildew is usually found on plants, so what's growing in your house is most likely mold.

Dark Brown Mold

The health effects of household mold vary. Alternaria, the dark brown mold often found in showers, and Aspergillus, the orange, brown and white molds that grow in walls, can both trigger allergies, but are largely harmless in small amounts.

Dark Green And Black Mold

On the other hand, Stachybotrys, the dark green or black mold known simply as "black mold" is so toxic it can cause severe health problems in otherwise healthy people. This mold typically grows on cellulose materials, such as wood, fiberboard, and wallpaper.

Assess Your Mold Contamination

Before you start cleaning any mold you find, inspect your home to determine how far it's spread. Pay special attention to the corners of ceilings, surfaces behind and under furniture or under rugs, and the undersides of shelves. The location of the mold can also help you determine the type you're dealing with. For small areas of most types of mold growth, wearing gloves, a hair cover, and an N-95 respirator mask is enough to protect you while you clean. If the mold covers more than around 10 sq. ft. or you suspect your home has black mold, contact a mold remediation specialist.

State Licensed Mold Inspectors Know Best

In conclusion, mold and mildew can be a serious problem in homes and businesses. It is important to understand the difference between mold and mildew and to assess the damage before starting mold cleaning. If the area of the mold is larger than 10 sq. ft. or if it is suspected to be black mold, it is important to call a state licensed mold insepector for the job.

Resolve Your Issues With Professional Mold Remediation Services

If you suspect you have a mold and mildew issue at your home, contact your local Rytech Restoration to schedule a mold inspection today. Rytech's mold inspectors have the experience to help you identify the type of mold you're dealing with and the best method to efficiently remove it so your indoor environment can return back to a safe and healthy space.

Rytech Restoration's Emergency Service Locations

Find your local Rytech Restoration below by clicking and expanding the state where your property is located. Live specialists are standing by, ready to answer your questions and dispatch a certified technician to your door.