White mold or white mould does not refer to a specific type of mold. While there are some molds that are typically white, majority of the molds may appear white prior to spore production.
White Mold or Efflorescence
Sometimes people mistake white salt (efflorescence) for white mold. Just like with mold, efflorescence may appear as white fluffy stuff on concrete wall or floor. While mold may not grow on concrete surfaces, the presence of efflorescence is an indication of moisture problem that could lead to mold growth on susceptible building materials such as wallpaper, drywall paper, wood, etc.
White Mold Health Risks
Just like black mold, there are no health risks specific to white mold. Health risks attributed to mold exposure are not determined by the color of the mold. All molds regardless of their color are potentially a health hazard.
How to Clean White Mold
All molds regardless of color are cleaned the same way. The procedure to clean the mold and the risks involved depend on the amount of mold present. A number of industry guidelines provide procedures for mold removal and remediation. These guidelines include:
- Guidelines on Assessment and Remediation of Fungi in Indoor Environments by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.
- CCA 82 – 2004 Mould guidelines for the Canadian construction Industry
- EACO Mould Abatement Guidelines Edition 2 (2010)
- IICRC S520-2015 Standard for Professional Mold Remediation
The guidelines provide information on how to remove mold safely. Extensive mold growth should be removed by a trained professional. It is important that the source of moisture is identified and rectified to prevent new mold growth developing from mold spores. Mold on hard surfaces such as concrete and metal can easily be cleaned but for porous materials such as the insulation and drywall, the material cannot be cleaned and should be removed and discarded.