How the Water Mitigation Process Uses Airflow and Dehumidification
Professional Drying Methods for Restoring Sandy Springs Homes
To properly dry a structure during water mitigation, trained restoration technicians use specialized tools and techniques that target hidden moisture deep within building materials. Considering how Sandy Springs's seasonal rains and plumbing or appliance-related incidents alike can contribute to water damage, employing the proper drying strategy can prevent costly damage to flooring, drywall, and insulation. Two of the most effective methods are controlled air movement and low-grain refrigerant dehumidification. When used together with extraction tools like sump pumps and wands, they form the foundation of a successful drying plan.
Choosing the Right Air Movers for Moisture Removal
Air movers are the first line of attack when drying out a property after the bulk of moisture is removed during extraction. These high-powered fans are designed to move large volumes of air across wet surfaces. This speeds up the process of evaporation, pulling moisture from materials like wood, carpet, and sheetrock into the air. There are several types of air movers, including axial fans and low-profile centrifugal units. Each has a specific purpose. Axial models cover broad spaces and hallways, while low-profile units fit under cabinets or other hard-to-reach areas. Technicians determine the type and quantity based on square footage, building layout, and saturation level. Placement aims for uniform airflow across every affected surface to redirect moist air toward dehumidifiers.
How Low-Grain Refrigerant Dehumidifiers Work
Low-grain refrigerant (LGR) dehumidifiers remove water vapor from the air to lower humidity. These machines use a two-stage cooling process that allows them to pull moisture even when humidity levels drop, making them different from standard dehumidifiers. When humid air is drawn in, it passes over cold refrigerant coils where moisture condenses and collects for draining. The processed air, now drier and slightly warmer, returns to the space to support further evaporation. LGR units are preferred during water restoration because they work efficiently in later drying stages when moisture is bound inside materials to help bring humidity levels back to pre-loss conditions without over-drying, which could otherwise damage wood and drywall.
Synchronizing Airflow and Dehumidification During Drying
Drying success depends on how well air movers and dehumidifiers work together. While air movers lift moisture from materials into the air, LGR dehumidifiers collect and remove that vapor. If the airflow outpaces the dehumidifier's capacity, humidity can spike, which hinders progress. That's why:
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Our technicians constantly monitor conditions using hygrometers and moisture meters.
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We keep track of grain depression values, calculate how much water is being removed, and adjust equipment as needed.
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Airflow patterns are changed throughout the process as surfaces reach appropriate moisture levels to avoid over-drying.
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Drying logs track humidity, temperature, and material moisture content.
This data helps professionals decide when drying is complete and when to move to the remaining restoration tasks, including any needed demolition, sanitation, and deodorization.
AdvantaClean of Sandy Springs is here to help with professional water mitigation services. Our team uses industrial-grade drying equipment and follows IICRC guidelines to protect your home after water damage. Call us at (404) 474-8443 for expert service.