Mildew can sometimes be harder to identify than mold, however it can still pose a health threat if left untreated. If you are stumped on how to identify mildew in an RV, follow these steps below.
How to Identify Mildew in an RV
The Environmental Protection Agency defines mildew as “certain kinds of molds or fungus.” Whereas mold can often have a fuzzy, raised look, mildew is typically flat to the surface, and can be white and give a powdery appearance. It can occur on any organic surface, just like mold. Mildew also tends to thrive in moist, enclosed environments, and RVs and campers make ideal incubators for the pesky fungus.
Here is how to identify mildew in an RV:
Step 1: Inspect the interior and exterior for signs of mildew
Check around seams and surfaces that might come in contact with water. Look at all fixtures, hatches, and pipes to ensure a close seal. If seals are not airtight, they can allow for the elements to enter your vehicle and cause unwanted water damage and possible mold growth. Seal up any leaky areas or gaps in sills with one of our high-quality sealants. Make sure that the roof is sound and that there are no known roof leaks. Use your nose and smell for any off-putting odors like wet newspapers or dampness as this could be signs of mildew and mold growth. Look at any cloth, vinyl, fabric, or wood surfaces for signs of mildew, which could be white and powdery, or yellow/brown in appearance (downy mildew).
If you have a dehumidifier, use that to keep the humidity levels neutral at no more than 50%. Progressive Insurance recommends keeping the levels anywhere between 30-50%. Consider investing in a digital humidity monitor (hygrometer) to monitor humidity levels if you are unsure.
Step 2: Remove any mildew or mold immediately to prevent spore spreading
If you do identify mildew or mold, it is important to take action immediately to prevent the spores from spreading. RVbyLIFE’s Mildew Remover is a great option for the removal of mildew. With a chlorine-free, acid-free formulation, it will not only eliminate mildew, but it will also control the mildewy odors. It will even work on fabrics, too.
Step 3: Take steps to prevent mildew
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, as the saying goes. So, the best way to keep mildew at bay is to prevent it from forming in the first place. Check out Four Tips to Prevent Mildew in Your RV – and a Tip For When It Does and Tips for Preventing Mildew During Winter RV Season for more information. Investing in a good dehumidifier and a good HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter, according to USAToday, is worth it in the long run.
Final thoughts
Whether you are working on restoring your camper or RV, or doing DIY RV maintenance, look no further than RVbyLIFE’s line of high-quality RV care, RV repair, and RV restoration products. Our full product catalog is available on our website at www.rvbylife.com or you can request a hardcopy catalog by mail. All of our products are meticulously crafted using only the highest quality materials at our manufacturing facility in North Charleston, South Carolina. Our parent company, Life Industries Corporation, recently celebrated its 65th anniversary, and continues making high-quality sealants, waxes, solvents, epoxies, and more, for the marine, RV, and aviation industries.
For the Life of Your RV, choose RVbyLIFE.
