Can I remove this black mold myself 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, on the wall that faces the outside. It wasn't there during my last clean-out a few months ago, but with all the humidity lately, it's appeared. Is this something I can handle myself with bleach from the supermarket, or do I need to call one of those specialist companies to get it tested and removed properly?
|
|
That black mold in your closet is a classic Dubai issue, caused by thermal bridging. Your external wall gets intensely hot, but the air inside your closet from the AC is cold. This temperature difference creates condensation inside the wall cavity, providing the moisture mold needs to grow on the dust and organic materials there. Bleach is not the right solution for porous surfaces like drywall; it only removes the surface colour and can push the roots deeper while leaving the moisture problem intact.
For a small patch (under one square foot), you can manage it yourself. Wear an N95 mask, gloves, and safety glasses. Scrub the area with a dedicated mold cleaner or a mixture of detergent and water, not bleach. After cleaning, the area must be dried completely with a fan. However, since the moisture is likely originating from within the wall, the mold will almost certainly return unless the root cause is fixed. The recurring nature points to a professional assessment. A specialist will use a moisture meter to confirm the source of the water intrusion within the wall and identify if insulation is compromised. In many cases, the remediation involves creating ventilation points or addressing the thermal bridge, not just surface cleaning. For hidden mold or if anyone in the household has respiratory sensitivities, professional remediation following DM guidelines is the only way to ensure it is resolved permanently. The decision hinges on whether you're treating a stain or solving a building physics problem. |
Please log in to post questions/answers: