Urgent: Shower Mold Under Sealant, DIY or Professional?« Back to Previous Page

Black and green mould under silicone sealant is common in Dubai's high humidity, especially in bathrooms with poor ventilation. The urgency depends on the extent: if it's confined to a small area (under 10 sq ft) and the underlying wall is still firm and dry, a thorough DIY cleaning this weekend is reasonable. However, if the mould has spread significantly, the wall feels soft, or the musty smell persists throughout the apartment, a professional inspection is warranted this week.

For DIY, start by scraping out all the old, contaminated silicone sealant completely—this is non-negotiable as mould grows within it, not just on the surface. Clean the exposed area with a dedicated mould remover, allowing it to dwell for the recommended time. Ensure the area is bone-dry for at least 24 hours with a fan running before applying a high-quality, mould-resistant silicone sealant. Simply bleaching the surface will not address the root problem.

The persistent musty smell you mention is a key indicator. It often signifies that moisture has penetrated behind the tiles or into the wall substrate, which is beyond a surface clean. In such cases, and especially in a rental apartment where liability and proper remediation matter, a professional assessment is prudent. They use moisture meters to detect hidden dampness and can perform air or swab tests to identify the mould species, which is important for assessing risk, particularly for households with allergies or asthma. The goal is to fix the moisture source and ensure the mould is fully removed, not just covered up.