Structural drying is the science of removing moisture from building materials — drywall, framing, subfloors, insulation — back to their normal moisture content. Done right, materials are saved. Done wrong, mold grows.
The IICRC moisture-content target
Wood framing typically reads 10-15% moisture content in a healthy Indiana home. After a water loss, it can climb to 25-40%. Our job is to dry it back to within 2 percentage points of the normal reading in unaffected areas of the same home. We measure with calibrated pin and pinless moisture meters, daily, until we hit the target.
Equipment we use
- Industrial air movers. 2,800-3,500 CFM commercial units, placed to create circulation across all wet surfaces.
- Low-grain refrigerant dehumidifiers (LGR). Pull 100-150 pints per day. Necessary in any drying chamber over a few hundred square feet.
- Desiccant dehumidifiers. For larger losses or wood-heavy materials where LGR isn't enough.
- Heat injection. Targeted drying chambers where ambient temp can be elevated to accelerate drying.
- HEPA air scrubbers. Filter airborne particulates during drying.
The daily monitoring process
A technician returns daily for 3-5 days (sometimes longer for large or complex losses) to take moisture readings, adjust equipment placement, document progress, and share the daily report with your insurance adjuster. Drying is complete when readings hit target, not when the calendar says so.
Related services
FAQs
How long does structural drying take?
Typically 3-5 days for a moderate residential loss. Longer for larger losses or materials like hardwood that dry more slowly.
Why does drying matter so much?
Wet materials grow mold within 24-72 hours. Drying to target moisture content kills the mold-growth risk and saves materials that would otherwise need replacement.
Will my insurance cover the drying equipment cost?
Yes. Structural drying equipment rental is a standard Xactimate line item that insurance pays for as part of the water mitigation scope.