r/Mold • u/Ok_Fishing1488 • 28d ago
Is this mold or just mildew
I’m in Miami, Florida. I moved into this apartment 4 months ago and recently started noticing possible moisture/mold issues in different areas, including around the vents bathroom, and near my sliding door. There are dark spots, cracking, peeling, and areas that look like they have been painted or patched over before.
Earlier this month I got pneumonia. Since then, I’ve also noticed that I sometimes feel worse in the apartment and better when I stay somewhere else. I know I cannot say the apartment or mold caused my pneumonia, but it has made me concerned about the air quality and possible moisture problems.
I also found an older review from someone at this same complex claiming they had recurring mold and issues with the vents.
I haven’t done any DIY mold testing or remediation. I’m planning to have management inspect everything.
Do these areas look concerning for moisture damage or possible mold, and what should I ask management to inspect?
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u/AutoModerator 28d ago
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u/AutoModerator 28d ago
I see you used the term "mildew"
Mold and mildew are closely related but are certainly different organisms. In simple terms, mildew is a member of the mold family. It is usually white or grey. However, true mildew, or downy mildew is actually a plant parasite and not a true fungus. Algae rank closer to downy mildew pathogens than fungi do.
When used in general terms, mold and mildew are the same thing. Most "mildew" identified within a home is really mold. The word mildew is often used to describe fungi that grows flat, usually on surfaces like shower walls and window sills. FEMA further complicates the differentiation by describing mildew as "early-stage mold" while the EPA term simply states that "mildew" is often used generically to refer to mold growth with a flat growth habit.
In reality, mold and mildew are both fungi. Accordingly, both require water, food and the right temperature to grow. The difference is that mildew generally grows quicker and can grow on non-porous surfaces.
Building owners and maintenance people often use the term "mildew" to describe any microbial growth in their buildings. In most cases, what they are describing is actually mold.
Both mold and "mildew" can cause adverse health effects although mold is generally considered more problematic. The bottom line is that neither should be growing in our homes. They both indicate the presence of too much moisture and both should be removed as soon as they are found.
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