How to treat mold from damp wall and check for leak?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids have been coughing and I suspect it’s from the black spots I just found behind the wardrobe in our master bedroom. We’ve lived here for 2 years and just noticed it, probably because we never move that heavy furniture. The wall feels a bit damp to the touch, and I'm worried it's spreading. What’s the best way to treat this ourselves and who should I call to check for a hidden leak in the wall?
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Black mold growth behind furniture is common in Dubai due to the high humidity and condensation from year-round AC use. The damp wall suggests a moisture source, likely a hidden leak from a pipe or condensation buildup.
For a small area, you can clean it yourself with a solution of white vinegar or a diluted bleach mix (1 part bleach to 4 parts water). Wear an N95 mask and gloves. Scrub the area, let it dry completely, and dispose of any contaminated materials. However, this only addresses surface growth and the moisture source must be fixed. The dampness indicates a persistent leak that needs professional identification. A leak detection specialist should be called to use moisture meters and thermal imaging to locate the source within the wall without causing unnecessary damage. This is a critical first step. Given the symptoms and visible growth, a professional mold inspection is strongly recommended. An inspector can assess the full extent of the contamination, often finding it has spread inside the wall cavity. They will take air and surface samples for lab analysis to identify the mold species and spore concentration, which determines the appropriate remediation protocol and confirms the root cause is addressed. |
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