Cleaning Contractors NI Explains the Key Differences – And Why It Matters for Your Home
You spot a strange patch on your wall or bathroom ceiling—white, green, maybe even black. Is it mildew? Is it mould? And more importantly… does it matter?
If you live in Cookstown and you're dealing with suspicious stains or musty smells, knowing the difference can help you act faster, protect your health, and prevent damage to your property. At Cleaning Contractors NI, we’re here to break it down in plain language.
Mildew is a surface-level fungus that tends to appear in damp, warm areas like bathrooms, windowsills, and laundry rooms. It’s often white or light grey and can be wiped off fairly easily if caught early.
Common signs of mildew:
While mildew might seem harmless, it can still trigger allergies and worsen asthma if it’s allowed to linger.
Mould, on the other hand, is more invasive and potentially more dangerous. It penetrates surfaces and feeds on organic materials like plaster, wood, wallpaper, and insulation. Mould comes in a variety of colours—black, green, blue, even orange—and it’s not just unsightly. It can cause serious health issues and property damage.
Key traits of mould:
Black mould, in particular, is a common problem in Cookstown homes with poor ventilation or rising damp.
Homes in Cookstown and across Mid Ulster face higher risks due to frequent rain, cooler temperatures, and traditional building styles that may not prioritise airflow. We’ve helped property owners all over the area—especially in older terraced homes and rentals—deal with both mildew and serious mould infestations.
Whether you live near Fairhill, Molesworth, or just outside the town in a rural home, mould and mildew can sneak in faster than you might expect.
Here’s a quick comparison guide:
| Feature | Mildew | Mould |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Powdery, fluffy | Fuzzy or slimy |
| Colour | White, grey, yellow | Black, green, brown, orange |
| Smell | Slightly musty | Strong, pungent, earthy |
| Depth | Surface only | Deep-rooted, can damage structure |
| Risk | Mild irritation | Respiratory issues, long-term health effects |
If you're unsure what you’re dealing with, don’t guess—especially if anyone in your home has allergies or asthma. It’s always better to have a professional mould survey in Cookstown carried out.
At Cleaning Contractors NI, we offer:
We’re also the only IICRC-certified antimicrobial remediation specialists on the island of Ireland—so you know you’re in good hands.
Call 028 9560 0105 or visit www.cleaningcontractorsni.com to schedule your mould or mildew inspection today.
Reliable, flexible and professional cleaning company based in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
Belfast: The Mount, 2 Woodstock Link, Belfast, BT6 8DD