What's the Difference Between Mold and Mildew?

"Mildew" is commonly used to describe certain surface fungal growth, while "mold" is a broader term. For homeowners, the label is often less important than the moisture condition causing the growth.

Where is it growing?

Growth on a frequently damp shower surface is a different situation from widespread growth on drywall after a leak.

Is the material damaged?

Pay attention to the size of the affected area, the material involved, recurring moisture, and hidden water damage.

Don't identify hazardous species by appearance

Color alone doesn't reliably tell you what type of mold is present or what health risk it may pose.

Fix the moisture

Cleaning without correcting moisture often leads to recurrence.