Assessing Moisture Content in the Process

3/3/2025 (Permalink)

Keeping a Close Eye on the Process

When it comes to water damage, the first step in the restoration process is assessing the property’s moisture levels. Monitoring moisture is not just a technical necessity it’s a critical part of ensuring that the property is returned to its original condition without further complications.

Why Monitoring Moisture is Key

At the onset of a water restoration project, the good news is when the moisture levels start decreasing. This indicates that the drying equipment and methods are working, and the property is on its way to recovery. However, if the moisture levels do not decrease, it’s a clear sign that the restoration process isn’t progressing as it should. This is when we need to consider more invasive measures, such as demolition.

What Does Moisture Monitoring Tell Us?

Moisture levels serve as the most reliable indicator of how well the restoration efforts are working. If the moisture is going down, it means the materials are drying as expected. If it stays stagnant or increases, it signals that there could be hidden pockets of water still affecting the structure, which could lead to mold, structural weakening, or other long-term issues.

When moisture doesn't decrease, it’s essential for restoration experts to move to the next step. This might involve cutting into walls, removing flooring, or taking other measures to ensure the property is properly dried. Without this intervention, we risk leaving moisture trapped inside, causing further damage and more costly repairs down the road.