How to find and fix hidden mold moisture source?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's from the black mold I just found in the corner of our master bedroom closet. We’ve lived here for 2 years and just noticed it, but it's on the interior wall that faces the rest of the building, not an outside wall. I'm worried it's spreading inside the walls from a hidden leak.
What's the best way to find the source of the moisture and permanently fix this so it doesn't come back after cleaning?
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Start by investigating the moisture source. The location on an interior wall suggests a plumbing leak from an adjacent bathroom or pipe chase, or potentially condensation from an AC duct running inside the wall. Condensation is common here due to the high humidity and extreme temperature differentials between conditioned air and building materials.
For a permanent fix, surface cleaning alone is insufficient. A professional inspection using a borescope to view inside the wall cavity is the most reliable way to confirm the source and full extent. They will also use a moisture meter to quantify the water content in building materials, which helps distinguish between an active leak and residual dampness. In Dubai, hidden leaks are often from a cracked pipe or faulty AC drain pan. Remediation involves repairing the leak, removing affected drywall or insulation, and thoroughly drying the area with industrial equipment before reconstruction. Applying an antimicrobial coating after can help prevent recurrence. Given the symptoms and wall location, a professional assessment is strongly advised to prevent the issue from continuing to affect your indoor air quality and potentially causing structural damage over time. |
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