The Challenges of Removing Mold From Porous vs. Non-Porous Materials

Mold removal in Mississauga is not a one-size-fits-all process. At MoldTech, we’ve helped thousands of families treat indoor mold growth on dozens of different materials, surfaces, and items. One of the biggest questions or misconceptions we’ve come across is whether or not a material can be treated for mold growth. The answer is yes — but treatment methods may differ. Understanding if a surface is porous or non-porous goes a long way when eliminating mold, and we’ll try to help you understand that in today’s blog. To book a mold inspection, black mold removal, or ask any questions not covered in this article, call the MoldTech team today to find answers! 

Understanding the Difference Between Porous and Non-Porous Materials

Mold can affect a range of materials made from organic matter like wood, paper, or textiles. It can also grow on trapped dirt in areas like tiles, grout, metal, or stone. The main difference in how we treat mold is whether or not the surface is porous. 

• Porous materials absorb moisture, which can cause mold to get trapped beneath or within, and may include things like: paper, textiles, wood items, drywall, rugs and carpets, insulation. 
• Non-porous materials resist moisture, but mold can still grow on build-up on surfaces or in cracks. Non-porous materials that can be affected by mold include: metals, hard or soft plastics, glazed ceramics and porcelains.

Why Mold is More Difficult to Remove from Porous Materials

Mold is a living organism, and it grows root-like structures that can penetrate into porous materials. This can make mold removal tricky; if you don’t eliminate all the root systems, the mold may grow back. Porous materials like drywall, insulation, or carpeting can also retain moisture for a long time, sustaining the growth of mold over many weeks. With porous materials, early detection and remediation are key — in the worst cases, severe mold damage often requires replacement instead of cleaning. 

The Challenges of Cleaning Mold from Non-Porous Surfaces

The good news is, when mold attacks non-porous surfaces, cleanup is often much easier. The challenges with metal, glass, tile, or plastics are that moisture or residues that feed mold can linger in hard-to-reach or hidden parts. Non-porous materials may react to certain types of cleaning agents or media, however, which is why careful assessment is always necessary. 

Why Material Type Affects Mold Remediation Decisions

The challenge with mold removal comes when we are treating mixed surfaces where both porous and non-porous surfaces meet. What works for one material may damage or be inappropriate for the other. This is where MoldTech’s experience and professional tools and equipment help. Before mold removal, we’ll thoroughly assess both the level of contamination and what sorts of materials need treatment. We have a range of chemical and media-based treatments certified for use on many types of mold, such as toxic black mold removal.

Assess and Treat Mold With MoldTech Today!

While porous and non-porous materials affect how we treat mold removal in Mississauga, the most important part of our work at MoldTech is prevention. Understanding how and why areas of your home have or are at risk of mold growth through a mold inspection can help you create an environment where mold isn’t welcome. 

Our professional assessment is a valuable tool at any time of year and for long-time homeowners as well as renters, property managers, and first-time buyers. The MoldTech team is here to help you find a lasting professional solution to mold growth — call or email our team to speak more about how we can help. 

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