Should I treat wall mold myself or call maintenance?« Back to Previous Page
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The wall behind my wardrobe in the bedroom has these black and greenish splotches that I just noticed when I was rearranging furniture. We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed it, and the room has started to feel damp even with the AC on. What's the most effective way to treat this myself, or should I just call my building's maintenance immediately?
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Given Dubai's high humidity and constant AC use, that damp feeling suggests an active moisture issue. The splotches behind the wardrobe are a clear sign of trapped condensation or a possible leak, allowing mold to grow unseen for some time.
For a small area (under one square meter), you can attempt to treat it yourself. Wear an N95 mask and gloves. Clean the area with a vinegar solution or a specialized mold remover, then dry it thoroughly with a fan. However, simply cleaning the visible mold is often a temporary fix if the underlying moisture source isn't identified and resolved. The wall cavity behind may be affected. Since this is behind furniture and the room feels persistently damp, this indicates a larger problem. In such cases, the most effective course is to call your building's maintenance immediately. They are responsible for investigating and repairing structural leaks or insulation failures within the walls—common issues in the region's building envelope. They can also assess if the AC drain line or unit is contributing to the humidity. A professional inspection is recommended to determine the full extent, as hidden mold in wall cavities is a frequent issue here. A science-driven approach with lab testing can identify the species and the root moisture cause, which is crucial for a permanent solution. |
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