Treat black mold behind wardrobe or call professional?« Back to Previous Page
|
My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's because of the black spots I just found behind our bedroom wardrobe. We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed it when I was rearranging furniture. The wall feels slightly damp to the touch, and this is an interior wall in our Jumeirah villa. What's the best way to treat this ourselves to stop it from coming back, or do I absolutely need to call a professional company?
|
|
That damp wall behind the wardrobe is a classic sign of a hidden moisture issue, and the black spots are very likely mold. In Dubai's climate, interior walls can develop condensation or suffer from small, unnoticed leaks that create the perfect environment for mold growth, especially behind furniture that blocks air circulation.
For a small area (under one square foot), you can clean it yourself. Wear an N95 mask and gloves. Mix a solution of one part white vinegar to three parts water, scrub the area, and let it dry completely. However, this only addresses the visible growth. The critical step is finding and stopping the moisture source. Since the wall is damp, the problem is likely inside the wall cavity—a potential leak from a pipe, condensation from an AC duct, or capillary rising damp from the foundation. Given the symptoms your children are experiencing and the fact the wall is damp to the touch, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. They use moisture meters and borescopes to see inside the wall without causing major damage. This identifies the true source so it can be properly repaired. Without fixing the root cause, the mold will return. For health and safety, Dubai Municipality guidelines advise professional remediation for any mold affecting vulnerable individuals or caused by contaminated water. A proper remediation company will contain the area, remove affected materials safely, and verify the space is clean with post-remediation testing. This is the only way to ensure the problem is solved for good and your indoor air quality is restored. |
Please log in to post questions/answers: