When it comes to mold and mildew, both are forms of fungus that prefer warm and moist areas. Front Royal rental properties are especially prone to these conditions, so keeping them clean and safe is crucial. Knowing how to spot the difference between toxic mold and mildew is key to prevent a little problem from becoming a costly situation.
There are many different kinds of mold and mildew, most of which are not considered toxic or poisonous. For instance, mildew, a common surface fungus, is typically found on surfaces in bathrooms or other areas that are frequently damp. It appears flat and powdery, with gray or white coloration. Thankfully, mildew can usually be removed quite easily using a bleach solution and a scrub brush.
Identifying and Addressing Toxic Mold in Rental Properties
Mold, especially toxic mold, is often more invasive and harder to get rid of. Mold may grow in walls and ceilings, where it’s hidden in areas with high humidity or water damage, making it hard to spot. The most obvious sign of a mold problem is its smell. Mold smells musty, and the odor doesn’t disappear. It also tends to appear in a variety of colors, from black to green to red, and can look fuzzy or sometimes slimy.
The most concerning type is toxic mold, specifically Stachybotrys chartarum, also known as Stachybotrys atra. This greenish-black mold thrives in consistently moist environments, growing after significant water damage, water leaks, or condensation, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) notes that some people may experience physical symptoms after exposure to this strain of mold, including respiratory problems, headaches, dizziness, skin rashes, infections, and even asthma.
Preventing Mold Growth Through Regular Maintenance and Tenant Education
Eliminating mold is both difficult and expensive. While some surfaces can be cleaned with bleach, items like carpets, wallboards, and cabinets with mold may need to be completely replaced.
Therefore, catching any potential problems early is essential. Tenants can play an important role in preventing mold problems by learning to mitigate mildew and mold growth.
Since mold is often hard to detect, a rental home’s routine maintenance should involve regular checks for evidence of water damage and mold. Any signs of water leaks, condensation, or flooding need to be addressed promptly to minimize the growth of mold. If mold is found in your rental home, there’s likely a problem with water or moisture that requires immediate action. Simply cleaning the property will not be enough if the underlying issue remains unresolved.
At Real Property Management Elevation, our experts are here to help identify and resolve mold issues before they escalate. We provide thorough evaluations to safeguard your Front Royal rental homes. Contact us or call 540-409-5857 today for more information.
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