Comparison between black Mold and Mildew - By: Tauqeer Hassan

Mold and Mildew are the two terms we have often heard of in our day to day lives. Recently we all have been made aware of hazards of toxic molds, stories have also been heard of people actually losing their lives as being exposed to black molds in their homes. But in spite of being heard these two terms on very regular basis still we are confused of what actually is black mold. This article is actually going to clear the facts of mold and mildew. We will be able to differentiate between the two of them quite easily after reading this article.

Mildew

Though the term mold and mildew is used simultaneously but these two terms are quite different in nature. These are the two types of Fungus. Mildew is either powered or downy fungus. The former is caused due to Ascomycota and latter is caused by Oomycota.

Black Mold

This fungus is of many kinds but most of these kinds are black in color. Some are harmless some produce toxins called mycotoxins. Charetomium and Stachybotrys Chartarum are the most dangerous ones. Stachybotrys is often called black mold. It grows on building materials, such as drywalls, insulation backing and sometimes even wall papers. These usually thrive on moist environment.

Health Effect

Though the fungi that cause mildew are generally not harmful, but they can be smelly and displeasing to our eyes. There are few types which are harmful and at the same time if inhaled van even be a reason for death. The symptoms of which are respiratory disorders, difficulty in swallowing, a burning in lung and throat, bladder or kidney pain and many other infections depending on the strain.

Prevention

Mold and Mildew grow mostly in moist environments. One can prevent by controlling extra non required moisture in our day to day lives. Extra moisture rises in bathrooms due to the use of hot water which is caused by steam. This is more trouble some in the bathrooms where showers are used. Here in these circumstances proper ventilation fans proves to be of great help, as these removes the steam before mold and mildew can root up. Leaking roofs, patching any holes or cracks in the building should be done at proper intervals.

Removal

These days there are many cleaners which are available to remove molds and mildew. But one has to be particular in bringing them in use before the mold and mildew actually roots up in that particular place. Chlorine makes an excellent killer of mold that has rooted up on a surface. It can fully be removed by removing and replacing that surface .The expenditure of cleaning and replacing increases if that mold is growing on a dry wall.

About the Author

Also learn about How to Furnish an en Suite Bathroom and also How to Furnishing a Small Kitchen.

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