Mildew or Mold? Is there a Difference
Posted on | February 7, 2010 | No Comments
Remember a time when we never used the word MOLD it was always
MILDEW. In a previous blog we have written about the reasons of the rise in Mold over the past decades could be from the new building codes that the EPA mandated for energy efficiency. These codes not only make your contractor to structurally bring new housing into compliance, it also encouraged homeowners to insulate, put in high efficiency windows, and other energy efficiency building materials into the construction of their homes. Doing this in effect now doesn’t allow the house to “breath” or ventilate. And in turn traps moisture and invites the perfect environment for mold. So why do we now use the word MOLD over MILDEW?
Lets first explain the if there is a difference. Mildew is a word used before mold was really understood as being toxic and non toxic. Back in the time when our home “breathed” and we were not concerned with mold as a potential health issue.
We have said before that there are many different species of mold, which is from the fungi family. These one-cell organisms are naturally occurring in the environment to help with composting of vegetation MILDEW is often the least toxic type of mold, whitish to bluish in color and easily removed. It is a common mold that a commercial mildew remover can be used in routine cleaning. There are also “home remedies” such as using, diluted bleach, or water and borax, even Tea oil and water, to name a few. This is only for small area’s of mildew found.
We see this type of mold in the bathroom. Also ”musty” smelling area’s, such as basements will also give you a clue there is some type of mold in your home. Some molds can unfortunately be toxic. Depending on the amount of infestation of the mold and the type of mold. Usually mildew or non toxic mold we see in the bathroom can easily be removed.
This type of mold or mildew spore can find a home on material, fabric, upholstery, rugs and Carpets. Once a food source is found and moisture or water is available, mold will grow. As we have written before, if a large area is discovered, a certified Mold contractor should be contacted. But here are a few ways that you may prevent mildew from occurring.
1. Get the moisture out of the air. The first step to control mildew is to try and control the humidity or moisture in the air. Not just a leaky pipes or roofs are always the culprits. Moisture in the air can add gallons of water in the house’s environment from bathing, washing clothes and even cooking. Emittin water vapor in the air.
2. Cool air holds less moisture than hot. Air conditioning if working and ventilating properly while cooling the air will remove the moisture in the air. Then circulate the newly cooled and dry air back into the house. If needed you can also warm the house to get rid of any dampness. Always use an exhaust fan while cooking or showering. A simple thing as a light bulb in a small area will get rid of dampness in a small space such as a closet housing your water heater.
3. You can also use commercial products the absorb moisture using a silica gel or activated alumna, as these will absorb moisture in the air. Remember to keep the air circulating. As stated before, our homes are much less able to “breathe” as we try to conserve energy and keep the cool inside and the hot outside. We as always are concerned about the not only the health of your family but the health of your home.
With that in mind let Moldremoval.com help you find a contractor in your area that can help you to make sure you do not have toxic Mildew or Black mold in your home.
Tags: get rid of mold > mildew removal > mildew remover > mold carpet > remove mildew
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