Structural Drying Standards

The IICRC has set the standard for structural drying and this is the standard we follow. We will use the science of psychrometry to create a balanced drying environment that will effectively restore a wet structure. This involves 4 factors: airflow, temperature, humidity, and time. These factors must be constantly monitored to quickly and effectively restore a structure.

Below is a basic example of a typical water loss situation and what you can expect from our company.*

1. Moisture detection - We will use our specialized moisture detection equipment to determine the extent of water loss. We will not only test the room where there is visible damage, but also all the adjacent rooms as well. We do this to eliminate any guessing of where water might be.

2. Extraction - Carpet and cushioning can hold large amounts of water. The first goal is to remove as much of this water as possible since water is most easily removed in its liquid state. Also, by removing water away from walls using a wand, we can limit the amount that the wall absorbs. Then we will use a subsurface water extractor to pull water out of your flooring. Water will be removed from hard surfaces using a hard surface water extractor. We will also determine if there is a need for an anti-microbial to inhibit any fungal growth. We will check to make sure any furniture that can bleed (i.e. stained wood) or rust is blocked to prevent immediate damage.

3. Evaporation and Dehumidification - Once the excess water is removed, we must concentrate on changing water from a liquid to vapor form using evaporation. By using air movers positioned in the right location , we can maximize evaporation. We also must focus on removing the evaporated water from the structure through either a natural or mechanical drying system. Given the right internal and external circumstances, we may be able to use the outside environment to help expedite the drying process. If not we must use a mechanical, or closed, drying system through the use of dehumidifiers. It is important that the rate of dehumidification is greater than the rate of evaporation to prevent humidity damage to structural components and porous materials. Using specialized equipment and scientific formulas, we can determine the correct amount of equipment to promote the most efficient drying environment.

4. Daily checks - After the drying environment is set you can expect to see us daily until your structure has been successfully restored. We will keep detailed logs to track your progress and will show and explain these logs, and answer any other questions you might have, at your request.