Should I hire a pro for black shower grout in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

The grout between the tiles in our master bathroom shower has started turning black over the last couple of months, and no matter how much I scrub with bleach, it comes right back. We live in an older villa in Al Barsha and I'm worried the moisture is getting behind the walls. Should I just hire a professional company to get this sorted for good, and roughly how much should I expect to pay for a full treatment in a standard-sized bathroom?
Posted by Minh Kobayashi
Asked on May 10, 2026 9:06 pm
Black grout in a Dubai bathroom is almost always mold, thriving on the high humidity and condensation from showers. Bleach only removes surface discoloration but doesn't kill the root structure, which is why it returns so quickly.

In an older villa, your concern about moisture behind the walls is valid. The constant damp environment can compromise the waterproofing membrane behind the tiles. If the mold is returning within days of cleaning, it indicates a persistent moisture source that needs to be addressed, not just cleaned.

For a recurring problem like this, a professional assessment is recommended. They can conduct a moisture meter reading on the walls to determine if there's trapped water. In many cases, the only permanent solution is to remove the affected grout and tiles, repair the waterproofing, and re-tile. This is a common issue here due to our climate.

The cost for remediation varies significantly. A simple surface clean is one thing, but a full remediation involving tile removal, substrate drying, and waterproofing is a more involved project. You should request an on-site assessment from a certified provider to get an accurate scope and quote for the work required. Look for companies that provide detailed diagnostic reports rather than just a cleaning estimate.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 12, 2026 9:53 am