Mold vs. Mildew: What Savannah Homeowners Need to Know

Living in the warm, humid climate of Savannah, Georgia, increases your risk of developing mold and mildew problems in your home or business. While mold and mildew are both fungi that thrive in damp environments, they are not the same—and understanding the difference is important for protecting your property and your health.

At Tru Steam Carpet & Upholstery, we help homeowners and business owners throughout Savannah, Rincon, Richmond Hill, Guyton, Hinesville, Bryan County, Effingham County, and Tybee Island with professional mold and mildew treatment and prevention. Here's how you can tell them apart, and what to do if you find either in your home.

Where Mold and Mildew Grow

Mold and mildew both thrive in areas with excess moisture. Common places include bathrooms, kitchens, crawlspaces, basements, and areas affected by leaks or flooding.

• Mildew typically appears on plants, fabric, and damp surfaces like shower walls or window sills. It is less invasive and generally easier to clean.
• Mold is more aggressive and can grow on any organic surface, including drywall, wood, carpet backing, and insulation. Over time, mold can cause structural damage to your home and lead to serious health concerns if left untreated.

If you live in a high-humidity region like Savannah or Bryan County, mold growth can occur quickly and silently behind walls, under carpets, or in air ducts.

How to Identify Mold vs. Mildew

• Mildew is typically flat and appears white, gray, or yellow. It may darken over time but remains surface-level.
• Mold has a fuzzy or slimy texture and appears in irregular patches. It can be black, green, blue, or even orange depending on the strain.

Because mold can spread through airborne spores, it's important to take any signs seriously and consult a professional mold remediation company like Tru Steam.

Health Risks of Mold and Mildew

Exposure to mildew can cause minor respiratory irritation, especially for individuals with allergies or asthma.

Mold, on the other hand, is linked to more severe health issues, including:

• Sneezing, coughing, and throat irritation
• Skin rashes
• Eye and nose irritation
• Asthma attacks
• Chronic sinus infections
• Fatigue and headaches
• In rare cases, long-term exposure can contribute to neurological conditions

If you or your family members are experiencing unexplained symptoms, it may be time to inspect your home for mold growth, particularly in areas that have experienced water damage or poor ventilation.

Preventing Mold and Mildew in Coastal Georgia

Because Savannah and the surrounding coastal areas are naturally humid, preventing mold and mildew growth requires a proactive approach:

• Use dehumidifiers to keep indoor humidity below 50 percent
• Install and maintain proper ventilation in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry areas
• Repair leaks promptly to prevent moisture buildup
• Regularly inspect crawlspaces, attics, and basements
• Use mold-resistant materials in high-risk areas
• Professionally clean carpets and upholstery to remove moisture, allergens, and organic buildup

How to Treat Mold and Mildew

• Mildew can often be cleaned using mild detergent and water on non-porous surfaces. When found on plants, it should be gently wiped away and the affected leaves removed.
• Mold, especially when it affects more than 10 square feet, should always be handled by certified professionals. DIY mold removal can release spores into the air, worsening the issue or affecting your health.

At Tru Steam, we specialize in identifying, containing, and removing mold from residential and commercial properties throughout the Savannah area.

Professional Mold Removal in Savannah, GA

If you suspect mold or mildew in your carpet, upholstery, walls, or air ducts, do not wait. The longer you delay, the more costly and damaging the issue becomes.

Tru Steam Carpet & Upholstery provides expert mold remediation and cleaning services in:

• Savannah
• Rincon
• Richmond Hill
• Effingham County
• Guyton
• Bryan County
• Hinesville
• Tybee Island

We also offer full-service carpet and upholstery cleaning, tile and grout cleaning, and water damage restoration to keep your home healthy and safe.

If you need mold or mildew removal, water damage restoration, or professional carpet cleaning in Savannah, GA, trust the experts at Tru Steam Carpet & Upholstery. Contact us today or call 912-295-5925 to schedule an inspection or request service.