Could sealing ducts solve our mold issues?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a musty smell in my bedroom, especially when it’s humid outside. My kids have been complaining of coughing fits lately, and I can’t help but wonder if it could be related to some water damage or mold growth behind the walls due to poorly sealed ducts. Could sealing the ducts help alleviate these issues, or should we seek professional assistance?
Posted by Daniel Allen
Asked on February 13, 2026 10:40 am
0
Sealing ducts is indeed an important step towards improving indoor air quality and can help mitigate some issues related to mold and musty smells. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, where humidity levels can spike during certain times of the year, proper sealing of your ventilation systems becomes even more critical.

Firstly, it's essential to understand that poor duct sealing can lead to a variety of problems including moisture intrusion, which is a perfect breeding ground for mold and bacteria. In the UAE, post-rain events or high humidity periods can exacerbate this issue. If you've noticed a musty smell in your bedroom, especially when it’s humid outside, there's a good chance that water damage or mold growth might be present within the walls.

To properly address your concerns, I would recommend scheduling a professional inspection. This is particularly important given the UAE’s stringent building codes and regulations regarding indoor environmental quality (IEQ). A certified professional can identify the root cause of the smell and determine if there's any active mold growth or water damage behind your walls.

However, sealing ducts can be an effective preventive measure to reduce the risk of such issues. By properly sealing all joints, connections, and leaks in your HVAC system’s ductwork, you can minimize air leakage and ensure that conditioned air is distributed efficiently throughout your home. This not only helps in maintaining a consistent indoor temperature but also reduces energy consumption.

Here are some steps you can take to seal your ducts:

1. Inspect all joints and connections for any visible gaps or leaks.
2. Use mastic sealant or specialized tape designed for HVAC applications to seal these areas.
3. Ensure that the air filters in your system are clean and replace them if they're dirty, as this can also help in reducing airborne contaminants.

If you decide to proceed with sealing your ducts, it's crucial to do so correctly. Improper sealing techniques can lead to further issues such as restricted airflow or over-tightened connections. Therefore, I strongly recommend consulting a professional HVAC contractor who has experience in both sealing and maintaining systems within the UAE standards.

In case you're looking for assistance, feel free to contact us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. We can provide you with expert advice and schedule a professional inspection if needed.

Remember, while sealing ducts is an important step, it should be part of a comprehensive plan to address indoor air quality issues in your home.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 18, 2026 3:02 pm