AC leak caused mold: DIY or professional for small area?« Back to Previous Page

For a small area caused by an AC leak in Silicon Oasis, DIY is a temporary fix but often not a complete solution. The visible mold is likely just the surface growth; the main issue is moisture trapped inside the wall and skirting board from the weeks-long leak. In Dubai's high humidity, this moisture allows mold to spread unseen.

A proper DIY approach involves fixing the AC leak first—this is non-negotiable. Then, for non-porous surfaces like the skirting board, a solution of detergent and water can scrub the surface mold away. Avoid bleach; it doesn't kill the roots on porous materials and its fumes can aggravate allergies. However, if the mold has penetrated the drywall or carpet backing, DIY cleaning will not remove it, and the colony will regrow.

Given your wife's allergy symptoms, a professional assessment is strongly recommended. They use moisture meters to find hidden dampness and can determine if wall cavities need drying. For a small, contained area, remediation is typically a straightforward process. The cost is generally reasonable for a localized job, but you should request an on-site assessment for an accurate scope and quote. The priority is ensuring the leak is fixed and the indoor environment is returned to a healthy state to prevent allergy triggers from recurring.