Removing Moisture from Materials

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

Different materials can hold and react to moisture differently.

The rate at which moisture moved through materials depends on two factors: the type of material and the degree of wetness. The kind of material will vary in permeability or the ability for water to pass through the material. The degree of wetness influences moisture movement, in combination with other material characteristics, by indicating the type of water being addressed. Water will be present in one, two, or three forms. 

Surface Water

Surface water can be found on the material's surface because it is liquid, visible, and evaporates. When clearing this type of water, it's best to remove it physically using mechanical extraction equipment. The remaining water will evaporate by using different airflow and moderate temperature and humidity.

Free Water

Free water is when its present within a material but hasn't bonded. You would find it in cavities, open pores, and other air spaces within the material. It is a liquid, generally visible when darkening the material, and can evaporate. It isn't as accessible at the surface when approaching free water, so you will have to use lower humidities and warmer temperatures. As the free water near the surface evaporates, the lower humidities and warmer temperatures are significant in maintaining the rate of evaporation.

Bound Water

Bounded water is when the water gets absorbed by the material and gets held by the chemical bonds. Due to this bond, you have to release it from the bond before the water can evaporate. We will have to evaporate the water first, so directing airflow onto the material won't be successful. The fabric will dry fastest when it is warmed, and the surrounding humidity has to be very low. This type of absorption takes longer than the other two types due to the chemical bond.

This knowledge is what separates SERVPRO from other companies. When we send our Project Managers to a water-damaged job site, they will be able to evaluate the site and will be able to come up with the best course of action.