Should I remove mold under shower sealant myself or call pro?« Back to Previous Page

My bathroom in our Jumeirah Village Circle apartment has had this musty smell for weeks, but I just pulled back the silicone sealant around the shower and found a bunch of black and green mold underneath. It’s been so humid lately that it seems to be getting worse quickly. Is this something I need to get a professional to handle immediately, or can I tackle it myself with a cleaner from Ace Hardware this weekend?
Posted by Brittany Davis
Asked on May 3, 2026 11:50 am
It depends on the extent and type of mold. For a small, surface-level patch, a DIY approach can be effective. However, finding mold underneath the sealant in a humid Dubai climate often indicates a more established problem that DIY cleaners can't fully address.

Cleaners from a hardware store can remove surface stains but often miss the root cause. The high humidity in JVC, combined with condensation from your AC and shower steam, creates a perfect environment for mold to penetrate porous grout and materials behind the tiles. If you see black mold that has a slimy texture or a strong, persistent musty smell, it's likely more than just surface growth.

Professionals are recommended when the mold is out of sight, has a noticeable odor, or if household members have respiratory sensitivities. The remediation process involves removing the contaminated sealant and any affected backing material, treating the area with specialized biocides, and most importantly, identifying the source of moisture to prevent rapid regrowth. A proper repair with mold-resistant sealant is crucial.

For a definitive answer on whether it's a simple cleaning job or requires professional remediation, a moisture meter reading around the area can help assess penetration. If the mold returns within a few weeks after a thorough DIY cleaning, that is a clear sign the issue is deeper and requires professional assessment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 4, 2026 5:11 am