What is mold?

Mold is described as a type of fungi that grows in multicellular, thread-like structures called hyphae. Mold wears many different hats and is responsible for food spoilage, biodegradation, and in the productions of things like antibiotics, enzymes, food, and beverages. Molds can be found in practically every environment, both indoors and outdoors.

What is the difference between mold and mildew?

Mold and mildew are both types of fungi. Though very similar, there are some major, important differences that you need to understand:

Mold is usually “fuzzy” in appearance, while mildew is “flat” in appearance and is described as powdery or downy.
Mold is typically dark black or green in color, and mildew is typically white or gray in color.
Mold has beneficial uses including being used to make antibiotics, while mildew really has no beneficial uses.
Mold can cause structural damage to homes and other buildings, while mildew is more known for damaging plants and crops.

Where can mold be found?

Mold is found living in almost every environment and can be found thriving and growing throughout the entire year, both inside and outside. Mold prefers environments that are warm and humid. Inside, mold is typically found growing in high-moisture areas, including attics, basements, bathrooms, laundry rooms, basements, and crawl spaces. Outside, mold can be found in dark, damp areas where piles of organic vegetation like plants, leaves, and grasses are decomposing.

Is mold dangerous?

Mold wears many different hats and can be beneficial because of its ability to break down organic waste, returning it to the soil. Mold also holds the potential to be very dangerous and damaging, depending on the specific strain. Mold causes food to spoil and may cause structural damage to homes and other buildings. Mold can cause respiratory problems such as allergic reactions, as well as fatigue, headaches, rashes, hives, joint pain, and inflammation in people and pets.

What are the signs of mold?

If you have a mold problem in your home you may start to notice some of the following common signs inside your home:

You or family members begin exhibiting health problems associated with mold.
You notice a “moldy” or musty odor in a specific area of your home or throughout your entire home.
Black or green patches of mold are visible inside your home. Mold grows quickly and, therefore, even a small amount of mold should be taken seriously. Take immediate action.

How do you prevent mold problems?

The best way to prevent mold issues in and around your property is to seek help from a professional mold control expert. Spencer Pest Services has the tools, knowledge, and experience needed to implement prevention measures inside the crawl spaces of your home to stop mold from taking over. Our moisture-control solutions for your home’s crawl spaces prevent issues with mold and mildew, improve air quality, and lower your property’s energy bills.

We offer:

Full Enclosed Crawl Spaces with CrawlSpace Care®
Vapor Barrier Plus
Moisture Barrier and Vents

Call us to learn more about our moisture-control options for your South Carolina, North Carolina, or Georgia home or business.