Is urgent mold under shower sealant a DIY job?« Back to Previous Page

Based on what you've described in your JVT apartment, this is a situation that absolutely requires professional assessment and remediation. The presence of a persistent earthy smell and visible black/green mold growth underneath the silicone sealant indicates a significant moisture issue that has likely been developing for some time. In the UAE's high-humidity climate, this problem will only accelerate.

Attempting a DIY removal, especially by just reapplying silicone, is a major risk. You will temporarily trap the active colony, allowing it to spread unseen into the grout, behind the tiles, and even into the wall substrate (plasterboard/gypsum board), which is highly susceptible to mold in our region. Disturbing it without proper containment and HEPA filtration can also cause a widespread release of spores throughout your ensuite and apartment.

For a case like this, a professional inspection is non-negotiable. We need to identify the moisture source—it could be a minor crack in the underlying waterproofing membrane, which is a common and serious issue here. UAE regulations, particularly from the Dubai Municipality, have strict guidelines for property maintenance and indoor air quality, especially in rented apartments, making a professional report crucial.

My strong recommendation is to avoid disturbing it further and to get a certified expert on site. We use thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact extent of the damage behind the walls before any controlled remediation begins.

Please call our team at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. Addressing this properly now will prevent a much larger and more expensive problem down the line.