The Real Difference Between Mold and Mildew: Explained
Suspecting Mold in Your Home?
If you think you have mold in your home, you've probably come across the word "mildew" too. But what’s the real difference between mold and mildew? Is there a difference?
Common Misconceptions
People often use "mold" and "mildew" interchangeably, including realtors, inspectors, and property managers. Mildew is sometimes used to make an issue sound less serious because it doesn't carry the same stigma as mold. However, the difference between them isn’t just about appearance or texture – it’s more scientific.
Similarities Between Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew are both fungi, similar to the mushrooms we eat. They feed by absorbing nutrients from organic matter and reproduce by making spores, which allow them to spread, much like how plants use seeds. Because they share similar structures and can come in various colors and textures, telling them apart with the naked eye is nearly impossible.
The Key Difference
Here’s where things get tricky: most mildews aren’t true fungi, but belong to a fungi-like group called Oomycetes (downy mildews). However, some mildews, like powdery mildews, are true fungi.
A simpler explanation is that mildews need a live host, like a plant, to grow, whereas molds can grow on dead materials like wood, fabric, or walls. This means mold is more likely to grow in your home, while mildew is typically found on plants.
Mold in Your Home, Not Mildew
If you're dealing with something growing in your home, it’s almost certainly mold, not mildew. With this understanding, you can feel more confident about what you're dealing with and focus on getting the right solution.
If your home has never had a dedicated mold inspection and or are experiencing any of these issues in your home, it’s worth getting things checked out. We use high tech machines to test air quality and swabs to analyze through a lab to determine the magnitude of mold in your home. Living in a clean and safe space for you and your family is a priority that shouldn’t be ignored.
Give a us a call today and we will be happy to walk you through the inspection process or any questions you may have!