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12/5/2023 (Permalink)

Drying out Basement

This is a summation of the general drying techniques after an area has experienced water damage. It is recommended that if, one has experienced a great amount of water damage. They consult, with an IICRC-certified professional to have restoration work completed on the property. 

The IICRC which is an acronym for the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification, has certain guidelines that are followed by mold and water restoration companies. Updated editions are often released that keep industry professionals appraised of the most pragmatic and efficient remediation tools and exercises. 

In the 3rd edition, the s500 Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration, there are references to the appropriate amount of drying equipment to use on a property, relative to the damage experienced. Various algorithms are used to calculate the appropriate amounts, which are delineated in the following classes:  

•  Class 1 (Smallest volume of water, absorption, and evaporation): An area or portion of the property that is only minimally affected by the water There is no observable damp carpeting in the area. 
• Class 2 (A large amount of water, absorption, and evaporation): An entire room or large area can be affected by the water including damp carpets
• Class 3 (Greatest amount of water, absorption, and evaporation): Large areas are saturated by water: this includes ceilings, walls, and any other overhead areas. 
• Class 4 (Specifically drying situations): These consist of wet materials with very low porosity (e.g. hardwood, plaster, brick, concrete, lightweight concrete, and stone). These types of losses may require longer drying times and special methods.   

  The appropriate drying method would be determined based on an inspection. According to industry experts, the most common 'class' documented is Class 2. The following levels of drying are associated with each class: 
  
  

  • Class 1:  Closed drying system i.e. not requiring outside air, whilst employing a dehumidifier.
  • Class 2: Water is first extracted from porous materials and materials which have absorbed water by using a sub-surface extraction tool. Dehumidifiers should be installed in the immediate area. Create a drying chamber and install air movers in the room. Ensure all wet materials are completely removed and heavily damaged materials (such as heavy water-damaged carpeting), are removed and replaced. 
  • Class 3: Consult with a certified professional since this type of damage is considered 'severe'. 
  • Class 4: Consult with a certified professional since this type of damage is considered 'severe'. 

Call SERVPRO of Babylon/Deer Park at 631-661-3802. Water Remediation Specialist. 

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