Restoring Concrete After Water Damage

After flooding or other water damage disasters, restoration professionals take special care to dry the property as quickly as possible. When the walls and contents are dried, concrete areas are often assumed to be dried. However, concrete has unique properties that make it more challenging to dry properly.

If concrete is not dry enough, it can quickly ruin new floor coverings, due to condensation. Many unexperienced contractors are unaware of this and can create problems for their customers by failing to remove excessive moisture from the concrete.

Successfully drying concrete after water damage often requires the services of a professional restoration company. They use specialized equipment, such as a Low Grain Refrigerants and Desiccants:

• These devices are manufactured to help increase the evaporation of the bounded “trapped” moisture within the concrete.
• The use of containment chambers help with the evaporation of the moisture in the concrete. By reducing the volume of space, you can reach equilibrium (the right amount of humidity) quicker.
• Restoration technicians use thermo-hygrometers along with non-evasive meters to help determine the concrete is reaching its equilibrium humidity.
• Because concrete is water-loving, this equilibrium humidity can often be in the upper 60’s.

Additional drying may be needed and can be achieved through air movement. Removing the boundary layer from the surface of the concrete also facilitates drying.

As part of the drying process, best practices include the use of dehumidifiers. The restoration technicians will also monitor the humidity levels. Only when the drying process is complete, can you install new floor coverings. Note that professional flooring installers are required to determine that the subfloor is in good condition and dry enough before they proceed with the installation.

Learn how to protect your home or property from water damage with these tips. If you’ve experienced water and storm damage, take a look at this article to learn how to act immediately after the disaster. For professional fire, water, and mold restoration services, contact your local PuroClean office.