Mold Myths vs. Facts

What You Need to Know Before You DIY

7/2/20252 min read

Mold is one of the most misunderstood issues homeowners face, and unfortunately, misinformation can lead to costly mistakes—or worse, long-term health hazards. At Mold Consultant Group, we’ve seen it all. From well-intentioned DIY jobs that made things worse, to renters being told mold is “just mildew,” the myths around mold are as common as the mold itself.

Let’s clear the air (literally and figuratively) by busting some of the most common mold myths we encounter across Montgomery, The Woodlands, Conroe, and the surrounding Texas communities.

🧪 Myth #1: "Bleach Kills All Mold"

Fact:
Bleach can kill some surface mold on non-porous materials—but it doesn’t penetrate porous materials like drywall, wood, or grout. Worse, the water content in bleach can feed the mold’s roots and help it grow back faster.

Pro Tip: Use EPA-registered antimicrobials and hire a licensed mold assessment consultant to verify the root cause and extent of the contamination.

🏠 Myth #2: "If You Can’t See It, It’s Not a Problem"

Fact:
Mold often grows behind walls, under flooring, or inside HVAC systems—places you won’t see but will feel through symptoms like musty odors or unexplained allergy flare-ups.

Solution: Infrared thermal imaging and moisture meters can detect hidden moisture where mold may be growing. That’s why our assessments use cutting-edge tech to go deeper than the surface.

🧹 Myth #3: "You Can Just Clean It Up Yourself"

Fact:
Minor mold on a shower tile? Sure, wipe it down. But once mold covers more than 25 square feet or is caused by water damage, the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) requires licensed professionals for assessment and remediation.

Improper cleanup can disturb mold spores, making them airborne—and that’s when health issues and cross-contamination become serious.

🧑‍⚕️ Myth #4: "Only Black Mold Is Dangerous"

Fact:
The term “black mold” usually refers to Stachybotrys chartarum, which can produce toxins—but many types of mold, regardless of color, can cause allergic reactions, asthma symptoms, and respiratory issues.

Bottom line: Don’t judge a mold by its color. Let lab testing identify the real risk.

🕳️ Myth #5: "A Dehumidifier or Air Purifier Will Solve the Problem"

Fact:
These tools can help control moisture and air quality, but they won’t remove an existing mold colony. Mold remediation requires removal of contaminated materials, not just treatment of the air around them.

🧾 Myth #6: "My Landlord or Insurance Will Automatically Handle It"

Fact:
Landlords in Texas are required to address mold under habitability laws—but not all do. Insurance may or may not cover mold depending on the cause (sudden vs. long-term leak). Knowing your rights and documenting properly is key.

Tip: A certified mold assessment report can provide legal and insurance support if you need to press the issue.

The Truth: Mold Is Manageable—With the Right Help

At Mold Consultant Group, we specialize in licensed mold inspections, air quality testing, and post-remediation verification. We serve Montgomery County, The Woodlands, Conroe, Spring, Tomball, Cypress, and surrounding areas with fast, accurate, professional service.

📞 Need a second opinion on mold in your home?

Call us at 832-280-4747 or Request an Assessment today.

Don’t trust myths. Trust the science. Trust Mold Consultant Group.

Mold Myths vs. Facts:

Think bleach kills mold? Think again.