Water damage restoration equipment is available in various types to help clean and rehabilitate properties. A professional has access to and experience using top-of-the-line equipment. Therefore, water damage can be quickly mitigated, and your home or business can be restored to its former condition. Here are seven types of equipment for water damage restoration that Restorerz – Emergency Services may use:
1. Thermo-Hygrometers
Hidden water damage can promote mold growth and weaken building materials and structural supports. Since not all water damage is easy to see, a thermo-hygrometer is useful. It tests for ambient humidity in the air in a given location. By measuring ambient temperature, dew point, Grains Per Pound (GPP), and other metrics, it helps water damage restoration experts find moisture pockets that can present a risk even after remediation.
Meanwhile, a moisture meter only measures a solid object’s moisture content. The thermo-hygrometer provides a more thorough assessment. It also helps a professional determine if their water removal efforts are successful. Temperature and humidity readings are taken outside the building and in each room. The two instruments are often used together for the most accurate results.
2. Moisture Detectors
There are a few types of moisture detectors. These handheld devices can include pins that are stuck into a material to sense moisture under the surface. Other moisture detectors are pinless. They have electromagnetic sensors that can determine the location of moisture and how much there is (primarily on the surface of materials). Some models integrate both methods.
3. Infrared (IR) Cameras
Moisture and damp building materials typically have temperatures different from their surrounding environment. An IR water intrusion camera detects variations in temperature so areas affected by water can be identified. A technician can use this information to determine how to proceed with clean-up and restoration.
The camera can be used along with sensors and meters that display the actual moisture content of building materials. Together, these tools help determine where to focus drying efforts or what materials need to be torn out.
4. Dehumidifiers
A standard dehumidifier for a damp basement or other room isn’t suited for addressing water damage. A low-grain refrigerant (LGR) dehumidifier works similarly but is more powerful (it can remove 200+ pints of moisture in 24 hours). It is also effective over a wider temperature range. Removing the residual moisture from the air prevents or limits mold and mildew growth.
5. Air Movers
An air-moving machine (or air blower) doesn’t dry the air directly. But by improving air circulation, it can speed up evaporation so an area dries faster. The larger an air-moving machine is, the more power it has; capacity is measured in how much air the device moves per minute (in cubic feet). An air mover has more functionality than a traditional fan.
The two types of these machines include axial air blowers, which can dry flooring and other materials from the top down, and centrifugal air movers that guide air behind drywall, under cabinets, and to other specific areas. When an air mover is used, drywall may need to be removed to dry a wall frame or a smaller hole can be cut to allow airflow into the space. Whether flooring and carpet can be dried from the top down or must be removed to dry the subfloor depends on the extent of the water damage.
6. Air Scrubbers
Water damage is often accompanied by other issues, such as smoke particles and odors. An air scrubber can remove particles, chemicals, and gases from the air. However, most water-related odors are related to mold and mildew. A wet air scrubber uses a wet filter, while a dry air scrubber has an ionic purifier to draw in molecules that cause odors.
7. Self-Propelled Dump Container
Water damage restoration often involves the removal of water-damaged materials. Mobile containers, whether manual or self-propelled, make this step easier and faster. They can also be used to lift and transport drying equipment such as dehumidifiers. The container’s weight capacity is determined by its size and power. Some models use hydraulics for dumping while others are small enough to fit through gates, alleyways, doorways, and other tight spaces.
Contact Restorerz – Emergency Services
Our professionals use the latest, state-of-the-art equipment to quickly assess the damage, extract water and moisture, and rehabilitate your home or business. We can respond within 60 minutes to emergencies in Los Angeles. Each solution is customized to the unique challenges of every job. In addition, we provide pack out services, clean and sanitize properties, and work with all insurance companies. Whether your property has been affected by a broken pipe, sewage backup, or flood, call (323) 577-6886 to begin the water damage restoration process.