How can I prevent wall mildew after rain?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell lingering in the corner of our bedroom. When I checked, I found some mildew starting to grow on the wall near the window where water tends to drip through during heavy downpours. What can we do to prevent this from happening again and ensure it doesn't spread to other parts of the house?
Posted by Giovanni Bakker
Asked on December 28, 2025 10:31 am
Certainly. The issue of wall mildew after rain is quite common in the UAE, particularly in areas like Dubai where rainfall might be less frequent but intense. To prevent this from recurring and to ensure it doesn't spread, a multi-faceted approach should be adopted.

Firstly, ensuring proper ventilation is crucial. Install exhaust fans or dehumidifiers in bathrooms and kitchens, as these areas often have higher humidity levels due to cooking activities and bathing. In rooms where you've experienced mildew growth near the window, consider installing an extractor fan with a timer that runs for at least 30 minutes after showers or baths.

Secondly, address any water intrusion issues promptly. Regularly check your home’s roof, gutters, downspouts, and exterior walls for damage or leaks, especially around windows where you've noted mildew growth. In Dubai, it's advisable to engage a professional to inspect these areas annually, given the climatic conditions.

Thirdly, maintain cleanliness in affected areas. Use a mixture of water and bleach to clean the mildewed wall (approximately 1 part bleach to 10 parts water) for more severe cases, or a specialized mold cleaner if available locally. After cleaning, ensure thorough drying by using fans or dehumidifiers until the area is completely dry.

Additionally, consider applying a waterproofing sealant on walls and around windows to prevent moisture absorption. Products like masonry waterproofers can be applied by professionals to create a barrier against water penetration.

Lastly, in cases where mildew persists despite these measures, it’s advisable to seek professional inspection and remediation services. In the UAE, companies like Saniservice (call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com) are experts in this field and can provide thorough assessments and treatments tailored to local conditions.

By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of wall mildew recurrence and maintain a healthy indoor environment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 30, 2025 7:09 am