How to remove and prevent mold behind bedroom furniture?« Back to Previous Page
|
My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's mold because we've found small black spots growing along the bottom of the wall in their bedroom, right behind the headboard. We've lived in this Jumeirah villa for 2 years and just noticed this after the recent humid weather. What's the best way to completely remove this and prevent it from coming back, especially since the furniture is pushed right up against the wall?
|
|
Move the furniture away from the wall immediately to allow air circulation. The black spots are likely mold growth fueled by trapped condensation and Dubai's high humidity.
For removal, wear an N95 mask and gloves. For small areas (under one square meter), scrub the affected wall with a mixture of white vinegar or a dedicated mold remover. Avoid bleach, as it only removes surface discoloration and does not address the root cause. After cleaning, ensure the wall is completely dry. Preventing its return requires addressing the moisture source. This wall is likely a "cold bridge," where the outside heat meets your cooled indoor air, causing condensation. To manage this, improve air circulation by keeping furniture a few inches away from the wall. Use a dehumidifier in the room, especially during humid months, to maintain humidity levels below 60%. Ensure your AC is serviced and draining properly, as a faulty unit can contribute to indoor humidity. For recurring or larger infestations, or due to your children's symptoms, professional assessment is advised. A certified inspector can use a moisture meter to identify hidden dampness within the wall and perform air or surface sampling to identify the mold species. This is crucial for health reasons and to ensure the remediation protocol is correct. In many cases, the mold visible on the surface is just a fraction of the growth within the wall cavity, which requires specialized techniques to address completely. |
Please log in to post questions/answers: