True or False? Is Mildew actually Mold?

As mold inspectors, we often get hit with the phrase “I think it might just be mildew, it’s not actually mold”. Sometimes this is a convenient distinction that in their minds distances them from the potential liability associated with mold, and sometimes it’s just an honest mistake. When we look at the facts, however, it really is a silly distinction.

A mold is a group of multicellular fungi that produce spores. Mildew is a grouping of these molds that typically grow flatter and less three-dimensionally than other molds. Mildew is typically lighter in coloring as well and grows on flat surfaces such as curtains, and windowsills. Similar to distinguishing wasps vs hornets, all mildew is mold, but not all molds are mildew.

When it comes to home maintenance and your health, it really doesn’t matter if it is mold or mildew. They are microorganisms that grow by breaking down the cell walls of building materials while also producing spores to grow and spread. This makes mold and mildew both destructive and a potential health hazard. The distinction is unnecessary for either diagnosis or treatment.

If you have mildew or other mold growing in your home, it should not be there and there are possible health risks if the issue is significant enough or not dealt with in a timely manner. Don’t let nuances in terminology keep the problem from being addressed.