High-moisture regions bring a unique set of challenges for restoration and remediation professionals. Excessive moisture in the air can draw out the time it takes for materials like paint, adhesives and finishes to dry — causing them to not fully adhere to the surface or dry unevenly. Moisture also causes wood, drywall, and insulation materials to deteriorate faster, weakening the property's structural integrity.
When preserving and enhancing properties, professionals should consider rules and practices that go beyond mold and water damage remediation. From humidity management to material selection, here are five principles for tackling these projects with ease.
1. Humidity Management
Proper humidity management can help complete projects on time and protect the aesthetics of quality work. Monitor humidity levels throughout projects using a hygrometer. Levels that exceed 60% are conducive to mold and mildew growth.1 Use any of the following tools to reduce humidity:
- Fans: Fans can circulate air and prevent moisture from settling on surfaces.
- Dehumidifiers: Dehumidifiers pull moisture out of the air to prevent mold, mildew growth, and musty odors.
- Air conditioning and heating: AC units lower the temperature and remove moisture from the air. At the same time, turning up the heat causes air to hold onto more water molecules, lowering the relative humidity.
A combination of these approaches will help manage humidity and ensure a successful project.
2. Ventilation Optimization
Proper ventilation is crucial in high-moisture environments. Enhancing airflow speeds up drying processes and reduces moisture buildup. Using vents and keeping doors and windows open lets air circulate freely throughout the property.
If possible, install vents in moisture-prone areas like laundry rooms and bathrooms. Regularly cleaning and maintaining these vents help ensure they work correctly. Encouraging indoor airflow helps keep mold away and ensures a more comfortable working environment.2
Attics and crawl spaces are often overlooked areas for moisture and mold prevention. If necessary, install vents, insulation, or fans in these areas.
Moisture can also be controlled by placing desiccants. Keep an eye out for signs of leaks or water damage that could lead to mold growth.
3. Efficient Drying Techniques
In high-moisture regions, paint drying times are typically longer due to the elevated humidity. Humidity levels that are 80% or above can delay the drying process and result in gummy, unattractive finishes on painted surfaces.3 As such, it’s crucial for professionals to control humidity and use efficient drying techniques to protect their work. Use specialized drying equipment like:
- Desiccant dehumidifiers
- Air movers
- Injectidry systems
- Moisture meters
These tools can accelerate the drying process, especially in humid areas where natural evaporation might be slow. Place the drying equipment in the most strategic areas to ensure surfaces and paint dry quickly. Regularly measure and adjust humidity and dry wet areas first to prevent moisture from migrating and causing more damage.
4. Material Selection
When restoring homes in humid regions, use materials designed to resist mold. Using mold-resistant drywall, sealant, caulk, paints, and flooring can be especially beneficial in areas prone to moisture, like bathrooms and kitchens.
Look for coatings, paints, and sealants that offer superior moisture resistance, such as acrylic paints, epoxy coatings, polyurethane, and silicone sealants. These materials can protect the property from humidity and create a more visually appealing space.
5. Maintenance and Monitoring
Professionals should regularly inspect their work throughout projects. This can help identify and tackle problems early on to prevent moisture-related damage. Monitoring tools like humidity sensors and moisture meters can track levels accurately over time.
Search for signs of water damage and address leaky pipes or faucets, which can cause issues in humid climates.4 Ensure that ventilation systems and dehumidifiers function correctly and keep gutters and downspouts clear to prevent water pooling near the foundation. Check and reapply sealants around windows, doors, and other openings to keep water from getting in.
By monitoring and addressing moisture before it builds up, professionals can ensure the long-term success of restoration projects and safeguard the property’s structure and aesthetics.
Safeguarding Properties in High-Moisture Regions
Successful restoration in high-moisture areas will take a comprehensive approach. From efficient drying techniques and ventilation to moisture-resistant materials and maintenance, professionals can mitigate high humidity challenges and complete their projects on time to ensure happier customers.
Remember to choose moisture-resistant materials and monitor humidity and signs of mold throughout projects. Doing so can enhance the longevity of the work and protect the property from damage. Following these rules and maintenance principles can ensure a property’s long-term success and resilience.
Resources:
- Center for Energy and Environment, Managing Humidity Levels https://www.mncee.org/managing-humidity-levels
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home https://www.epa.gov/mold/brief-guide-mold-moisture-and-your-home
- Aboff’s Paints, Paint for High Moisture Areas https://aboffs.com/blogs/resources/paint-for-high-moisture-areas
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Mold cleanup in your home https://www.epa.gov/mold/mold-cleanup-your-home
