What is Applied Structural Drying (ASD)?
Unlike traditional methods that often involve "rip-and-replace," ASD is a scientific, data-driven process designed to dry a structure as rapidly as possible. By utilizing advanced equipment and monitoring, restoration professionals can often save materials that were previously considered unsalvageable, such as hardwood floors, drywall, and subfloors.

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The Science of Psychrometry
ASD is governed by the principles of psychrometry, which involves tracking:

Relative Humidity: The amount of moisture in the air.

Temperature: Controlled heat to increase the rate of evaporation.

Vapor Pressure: Creating a "pressure differential" that pulls moisture from deep within porous materials toward the surface.

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The 4 Principles of the Drying Process
To successfully dry a structure, four critical components must be managed simultaneously according to IICRC S500 standards:

 

Water Extraction: Physical removal of liquid water is 500 times more efficient than evaporation. High-powered vacuums and pumps are used first to remove the bulk of the water.

 

Air Movement: High-velocity air movers are strategically placed to disrupt the "boundary layer" of saturated air on wet surfaces, promoting rapid evaporation.

 

Dehumidification: As moisture moves into the air, industrial-grade dehumidifiers (LGR or Desiccant) remove it to prevent "secondary damage" like mold or warped materials.

 

Temperature Control: Maintaining an optimal temperature (typically 70°F to 90°F) enhances the evaporation rate and allows drying equipment to operate at peak efficiency.