Mold in Mirdif closet: DIY or hire pro, and cost?« Back to Previous Page
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Our master bedroom closet in our villa in Mirdif has a strong, damp smell that started about two weeks after that big storm. I pulled out some winter clothes and found several jackets with fuzzy black spots on the shoulders. I'm worried it's spreading but I have no idea what it costs to get this properly cleaned and treated by a company here. Is this a DIY job with bleach, or should I just hire professionals and what's a reasonable price to expect for a small area like this?
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The fuzzy black spots in your Mirdif closet are a classic sign of mold growth, likely triggered by the post-storm humidity seeping into the villa's structure. The damp smell confirms an active moisture problem that needs immediate attention.
This is not a job for bleach. Bleach only removes surface discoloration on non-porous materials but does not address the root cause or kill the mold at its roots within porous surfaces like drywall and fabric. It can also exacerbate the problem by adding more moisture. For a situation like this, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. The storm-related moisture could have infiltrated the wall cavity behind the closet, meaning the visible growth is just a small part of a larger issue. A proper assessment involves using a moisture meter to find the source of the dampness, which is critical for a permanent solution. The cost for remediation is not fixed; it depends entirely on the extent of the hidden damage. A small, contained area where the moisture source is easily addressed will be at the lower end of the spectrum. However, if the wall requires opening, drying, and rebuilding, the scope and cost will understandably increase. Reputable companies provide detailed assessments and quotes only after this diagnostic phase. You should expect to pay for the initial inspection, which is a separate fee that is often deducted from the total cost if you proceed with the recommended work. For your clothes, professional ozone treatment can often salvage them, but items with extensive growth may need to be discarded to prevent re-contamination. To prevent recurrence, ensure your AC is running consistently to manage humidity and consider using a standalone dehumidifier in the room, especially during Dubai's humid summer months. |
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