Tearing out water-damaged drywall and replacing it with new materials will lead to future mold problems if even a small amount of moisture remains trapped behind the new wall material.
Structural wood framing should contain no more than 14% moisture (12% or less is ideal). As a comparison, firewood is dry enough to burn when its moisture content is 20% or less.
Flooding water deals enormous damage to a building. However, the worst of the damage is often not caused directly by the flooding. Once the standing water has been removed, moisture will still exist in areas such as fiberglass insulation, drywall, carpeting, and within structural wood.
If this moisture is not dried and removed completely, it will encourage mold growth behind the walls and in enclosed cavities (closets, wall voids, cabinets) within the building. In addition to mold growth, building humidity will also enhance the growth of dust mites, bacteria, cockroaches, termites, carpenter ants, and some species of cricket.
If mold is allowed to grow, it can lead to severe damages to property values. In one study of toxic mold, the average discount for affected property was a 59% decrease in value.
Call us for a free water removal quote today! We serve Ventura, Camarillo, Santa Barbara and many nearby areas, including Thousand Oaks, Carpinteria, Summerland, Moorpark, Newbury Park, Oak View, Ojai and other parts of California.
Some dehumidifiers on the market today attempt to keep your basement dry by blowing outside air into the home. This is a mistake!
100cfm of outside air, at a 70°F dewpoint, will bring in over 10 gallons of water every day. In your cool basement, this humidity condensates, providing ample moisture for mold growth.
Mold begins to grow almost immediately when there is sufficient temperature, moisture, and organic material present for mold to eat.
Additionally, long-term moisture in a building will lead to a variety of other serious problems, including warping wood, blistering paint, odors, and damaged electrical components of the home. Saturated building materials may also release hazardous chemicals and gasses. If you've experienced flooding in your home, it's vitally important that you dry the space as soon as possible.
For a free written humidity control & drying quote in your area, call or e-mail us today! We provide services to structures of all types -- commercial, municipal, and residential -- throughout the California area.
Our service area includes Camarillo, Ventura, Santa Barbara and many nearby areas, including Carpinteria, Thousand Oaks, Moorpark, Summerland, Oak View, Ojai, Newbury Park and the surrounding regions.