What causes mold in a closet on an internal wall?« Back to Previous Page

That pattern suggests a consistent moisture source, likely from condensation due to temperature differentials. In Dubai, the most common cause of mold on an internal wall in a closet is a cold spot created by a hidden air conditioning duct or pipe chase running inside that wall cavity. The wall surface becomes colder than the room's dew point, causing humid air to condense on it every time the AC cycles on.

First, check if the wall feels noticeably colder than the adjacent walls. This is a strong indicator. The moisture source could be a poorly insulated AC supply duct leaking cold air into the wall void or a minor, hidden plumbing leak from a pipe in the adjacent bathroom. High indoor humidity from daily activities (drying clothes, cooking) is then drawn to that cold surface.

The only long-term solution is to identify and eliminate the moisture source. For an internal wall, this almost always requires a professional inspection, as the cause is hidden. They will use thermal imaging cameras to pinpoint the exact cold spot and moisture meters to confirm the wall's moisture content. The fix may involve sealing and insulating the ductwork within the wall or repairing a pipe leak.

After the source is fixed, the mold must be properly remediated to remove the established colonies. Simply wiping it away will not stop it from returning. Finally, to manage the high ambient humidity that is typical here, consider using a compact dehumidifier or silica gel desiccant bags inside the closet to maintain a dry microenvironment and protect your belongings.