The Science of Water Damage

7/12/2024 (Permalink)

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Most of the materials in a home or commercial building are hygroscopic. This means that these materials draw moisture from the surrounding environment. All hygroscopic materials will reach equilibrium with the environment around them. With sudden water damage, drywall can soak up moisture and be wet. The typical moisture levels of drywall are low. With the sudden water damage, the drywall soaks up and holds onto the moisture. However, over a period of time, the material will eventually reach equilibrium and release any excess moisture. The opposite is also true. If a piece of drywall is in a climate with very heavy humidity, the piece of drywall will match the environment around it and won't ever dry up. Luckily for us, we do not live in areas with extreme humidity like tropical rainforests. This allows us to use our drying equipment to expedite the process of materials drying out to avoid any secondary damage.