Mold and mildew are common threats that all homeowners face, so it’s worthwhile to educate yourself on them. Signs of growth are a cause for concern because they can spread quickly and be highly dangerous to breathe. See some common questions that people have about mildew and mold so you’ll know what to expect and how to deal with these problems.

Mold & Mildew FAQ

What’s the difference between mold & mildew?

Mildew and mold are both fungi and are common in the damp areas of homes. Mold grows and spreads with invisible spores that travel through the air. Once it forms into a cluster, it will be visible typically as a pink, yellow, brown, gray, or black growth. Mildew is a specific type of mold that grows on flat surfaces. It’s not quite as destructive to your home or harmful to breathe as other forms of mold, but should still be addressed immediately to prevent spreading.

How is mold removed?

Removing mold disturbs the spores, releasing them into the air where they can be breathed. The mold remediation process will begin with isolating the area, misting it to keep down dust, then removing all the damaged materials. The materials are sealed in special plastic bags before removal from the site.

The area is cleaned with detergent and vacuumed with a HEPA vacuum if needed to remove spores. It’s then completely dried out, and the cause behind the moisture will need to be repaired — such as fixing a leak or improving air circulation.

How is mildew removed?

Small amounts of surface mildew growth can be removed with a bleach spray to kill the growth. For example, this may be a good solution if you see just a small line of black around the caulking in your tub. If it’s any worse, then you will need a similar removal as described above for mold.

Can I DIY removal?

You should never attempt to remove mold or mildew on your own. During a professional mold removal, the affected area is sealed to prevent disturbed spores from affecting your home’s air quality. The team will wear protective equipment and use specialized tools, all of which you do not have. When it comes to your family’s health, you should never take any risks.

When you need to get rid of mold, the experts at Blue Ridge Property Restore will handle everything on your behalf. These highly trained mold and mildew experts know how to safely and efficiently remove all threats for homeowners throughout eastern West Virginia, south-central Pennsylvania, central Maryland, and northern Virginia. They will even work with your insurance company to make the claims process as stress-free as possible for you. Contact them online or at (304) 262-8100 to request a free estimate.