Mold under shower sealant: DIY or call professional in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

Black mold under silicone sealant is a common issue in Dubai's high-humidity climate, where bathrooms rarely dry out completely. The best approach depends on the extent. If it's a small, isolated patch (less than one square foot), a careful DIY approach can work.

For DIY, use a hydrogen peroxide-based cleaner or a diluted bleach solution. Scrub the area thoroughly, but the most critical step is to completely remove and replace the old silicone sealant. Simply cleaning the surface will not remove the roots growing underneath it. Ensure the area is bone dry for at least 24 hours before applying new, high-quality mold-resistant silicone.

However, discovering extensive growth under the sealant suggests a deeper moisture issue. The damp smell you mention indicates potential mold growth within the wall cavity or behind tiles, which a surface clean cannot address. In this case, a professional inspection is warranted. They use moisture meters and borescopes to assess the hidden damage. Remediation often involves removing sections of tile and wallboard to properly dry and treat the structure, then applying antimicrobial coatings to prevent recurrence. For an apartment in Jumeirah, this also helps document the issue for your building management if structural repairs are needed.