Fort Myers Structural Drying

Drying a flooded building is no small task. Much like drying your clothes takes a considerable amount of time, drying out a waterlogged structure requires considerable time and effort. The drying process typically involves the use of high-capacity fans that move a ton of air and water vapor out of your home.

The drying process uses several of these fans to move air and force it to collect as much water as possible. While these fans are running, we typically keep the windows in your home or business open in order to allow fresh air to filter in and keep humidity levels down. However, if outdoor humidity levels are too high or it isn’t safe to keep your windows open, we keep them closed. We also typically combine these fans with a dehumidifier to remove evaporated water from the air so it can be properly disposed of.

How Long Does it Take to Dry Out Water Damage?

The amount of time it takes to dry your building will vary based on the size of your building, the type of materials you use, and the severity of your flooding. For smaller projects, we may be able to have your area dry in as little as a few hours. However, bigger flooding and water damage issues, such as natural disaster and storm damage, can take several days to completely dry out.

Why You Need a Professional to Dry Your Structure After a Water Leak or Flood

Drying a structure after a water leak or flood is not a simple task nor one suitable for DIY methods. Structural drying requires professional expertise for several reasons:

• Improper drying can cause expensive long-term problems. Water can quickly penetrate into various building materials, such as walls, floors, and ceilings, causing hidden moisture pockets that are difficult to detect. Improper drying can result in long-term damage, such as mold growth, structural weakening, and rot.
• Water damage restoration requires specialized equipment. Professionals are equipped with high-capacity dehumidifiers, air movers, and moisture meters, to effectively remove excess moisture from the affected areas. Professionals have access to and are trained in the use of these specialized tools, which are essential for efficient and thorough drying.
• Proper drying techniques depend on specialized knowledge. Professionals have the knowledge and experience to assess a range of important factors and develop a customized drying plan to ensure optimal results. They consider things like the extent of the water damage, the type of building materials affected, and environmental conditions. 
• Water remediation professionals can also help you with mold. Mold growth is a common concern after water damage, and improper drying can promote mold growth, which can pose health risks to occupants and further damage the structure. Professionals are trained in mold remediation protocols and can take necessary precautions to prevent mold growth during the drying process.
• Working with a professional is often required by insurers. Insurance requirements may mandate the use of certified professionals for water damage restoration in order to ensure proper assessment, documentation, and restoration procedures.
• Time is crucial in water damage restoration. Delayed or incomplete drying can result in additional damage and higher repair costs. Professionals, especially those with 24-hour emergency availability, can respond promptly, assess the situation quickly, and implement effective drying techniques to mitigate further damage.