Mold in Mirdif villa closet: DIY or call a professional?« Back to Previous Page
|
We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed a patch of black mold in the corner of our master bedroom closet, which is on an interior wall. It's been really humid the last few weeks and I'm worried it's spreading because my sinuses have been acting up. I'm in a villa in Mirdif and I'm trying to figure out if I can handle this myself with bleach or if I need to call one of those mold remediation companies. What's the typical cost range for a professional to treat a small area like this in Dubai?
|
|
That black patch in your closet is a common issue in Dubai villas, especially during humid periods. The interior wall location suggests a condensation problem, likely from the temperature difference between your air-conditioned room and the humid air trapped in the closet. Your sinus irritation is a legitimate concern, as it's a frequent reaction to mould exposure.
For a small patch (under one square meter), a thorough DIY approach is often possible. Bleach is not recommended; it's mostly water and can feed mould roots inside porous materials like drywall. Use a dedicated fungicidal cleaner or a solution of white vinegar and water. Scrub the area, let it dry completely, and address the moisture source. This means improving air circulation in the closet—leave doors ajar, consider a moisture absorber like silica gel, and ensure your AC is set to a consistent temperature to reduce condensation. However, if the mould returns quickly, has a musty odour, or you see discolouration on the wall suggesting a larger problem behind it, a professional inspection is warranted. In the UAE's climate, a small visible patch can be the tip of the iceberg, with growth spreading inside wall cavities from a minor, unnoticed leak. The cost for a professional to treat a small, contained area is typically on the lower end of the scale for remediation work. You are paying for their diagnostic process to find the root moisture cause, proper containment to prevent spores spreading during cleaning, and antimicrobial treatment—not just wiping a surface. Always request a detailed assessment and quote first; a reputable company will explain the exact cause and scope before any work begins. |
Please log in to post questions/answers: