How to permanently kill and seal hidden shower mold?« Back to Previous Page
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My bathroom in my Jumeirah apartment has had this musty smell for weeks, but I just pulled back the silicone sealant around the shower and found a ton of black and green mold growing underneath it. The bathroom doesn't have a window and the vent fan is pretty weak. What's the most effective way to kill this mold for good and who should I call to reseal it properly to stop it from coming back?
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Hidden mold under silicone sealant is common in Dubai's windowless bathrooms due to the high humidity and condensation from showers. The weak vent fan exacerbates the problem by trapping moist air. Simply spraying the visible mold won't solve it, as the roots penetrate deep into the porous surfaces beneath.
For a permanent fix, the contaminated sealant must be completely removed. All mold must be mechanically scrubbed from the underlying grout and tile with an appropriate, non-bleach-based cleaner. The area must then be thoroughly dried, which may require auxiliary fans for 24-48 hours in our humid climate. Only after the substrate is completely clean and dry should new, high-quality silicone sealant be applied. Given the extent you've described, a professional inspection is wise to check for hidden moisture in the wall cavity. In Dubai, remediation companies should follow DM guidelines for containment and removal to prevent cross-contamination. For resealing, a skilled handyman or a specialized tile and grout company can do the job, but ensure they understand the critical need for absolute dryness before applying new sealant. To prevent recurrence, run the vent fan during and for at least 30 minutes after every shower. Wiping down wet surfaces and using a dehumidifier can also help measurably reduce the ambient moisture that mold thrives on. |
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