The Differences Between Mold & Mildew

9/30/2024 (Permalink)

If you have unsightly mold growth like this, our team can hit the undo button with expert mold remediation work!

While mold and mildew may share similarities in appearance, the way you should handle them couldn’t be more different. Identifying whether a substance is mold or mildew will make a huge difference in your next steps. We’ll show you the identifying factors to look for below:

The Smell

While both mold and mildew have a bad odor, mold is significantly worse. If you smell mold, you’ll likely smell something strong and foul, like decaying meat. Mildew has an almost sour, less noticeable fragrance.

Where They Appear

If you see surface-level discoloration within your surfaces, you’re likely looking at mildew. Mildew can only appear on the surface of materials, which makes it far easier to clean and manage. Mold can appear below the surface of items like rugs, walls, and bathroom mats, which makes it a far greater concern.

The Texture

While you don’t want to touch mold or mildew with your bare hands, a thorough eye test can identify both. Mold has a more rigid and defined texture. If the surface appears bumpy or it juts out from the surface, you’re likely dealing with mold. Mildew is much flatter in texture, appearing almost like a powder.

Mold Remediation With SERVPRO®

Since mildew is considered an early warning sign of mold, you should be reacting regardless of what you find. SERVPRO of Greater Hunterdon County can successfully identify and remediate mold regardless of where it’s found. Give us a call to restore your property’s health!