Should I hire a pro for black mold under shower sealant?« Back to Previous Page

Black mold under silicone sealant is common in Dubai due to the high humidity and condensation from year-round AC use. The urgency depends on the extent. If the mold is only on the surface of the sealant and the underlying grout or wall is still solid and dry, a thorough DIY cleaning can be effective.

However, if the mold has penetrated behind the sealant, if the wall feels soft, or if the musty smell persists even when the area is dry, the issue is likely inside the wall cavity. This is very common when sealant fails. In that case, scrubbing the surface with bleach will only provide a temporary fix, as the hidden mold will regrow. Bleach also doesn't prevent regrowth and can damage porous surfaces.

For a persistent problem, a professional assessment is recommended to determine the moisture source and extent of the growth behind the tiles. They can remove the contaminated sealant and tiles if necessary, properly dry the structure, and treat the area with appropriate antimicrobial solutions to prevent rapid regrowth. The key is addressing the hidden moisture, not just the visible mold. If the area is larger than a square foot or you have respiratory sensitivities, professional remediation is the safer choice to ensure the root cause is resolved.