Insulation Absorbs Water Like A Sponge

1/24/2018 (Permalink)

The insulation in the ceiling absorbed much of the water from a burst pipe.

After experiencing a water damage, the affected materials absorb water based on how porous they are along with other factors.  This directly impacts whether an affected material is considered "salvageable," as in it can be dried in place, or "non-salvageable," as in it needs to be removed because it will negatively impact the drying of the salvageable materials.  Needless to say, wall and ceiling insulation doesn't stand a chance! 

It can be very difficult to dry insulation in place and, in most cases, it will impede the drying process for the surrounding materials and keep them in a dangerous place as far as moisture content.  This will keep the humidity of the affected area elevated and can provide ideal circumstances for mold growth.  Thus, SERVPRO of the Quad Cities will remove non-salvageable materials such as insulation to determine a feasible and responsible drying plan.  The goal is to keep overall restoration costs down and keep your structure sanitary.  The insulation in the picture from a water damaged home in Florence, AL as a result of a pipe leak shows how saturated the material has become - it's gotta go!  But once out of the picture, the surrounding structure can dry more easily and efficiently and we can get you back to normal sooner and safer!