Civil Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
These leaks can be caused by a pipe break, pipe freezing, corrosion,
or latent material or construction defects.
2. Leaks from backups and failed plumbing or HVAC systems (rup-
tured hot water heaters or water softener tanks, leaking cooling coil
drain pans, etc.)
3. Spills from dishwashers, washing machines, refrigerators, etc. or
resulting from human error (somebody left the tub faucet running
wide open and forget it!)
Preventing these leaks is almost impossible—as they say, “crap hap-
pens.”
But,takingstepstoirsteliminatetheleakandthentodrythebuilding
areaaffectedwithin24-48hoursisofparamountimportancetopreventmold
infestation.
A plan to respond to water problems and, if required, mold clean-
up, must be created so that water intrusion problems are identified and
dealt with within the first 24-48 hours after occurrence, as follows:
•
Any porous material (such as ceiling tiles, carpets, and sheet rock)
that has been wet longer than 48 hours should be considered a likely
source of molds. Some materials, such as drapes, can be laundered.
Materials such as topics and paper products may not be salvageable
even if wet less than 48 hours. Carpets wet less than 48 hours need
to be cleaned and thoroughly dried. Removal and reinstallation
should be considered, if necessary. If the carpet is glued to concrete,
it will not likely be salvageable. The underlying concrete retains
moisture that is best dried out by removing the carpet and exposing
the concrete to dry air for several days.
•
Removal of standing water is a priority and should occur in the first
24 hours.
•
Dehumidification by air conditioning, where feasible, or by dehu-
midifiers to remove absorbed excess water should be ongoing for 72
hours or until the environment is reduced to less than 50% relative
humidity levels. A good target for moisture control is to control the
dew point temperature indoors to between 35°F and 55°F.
•
Sanitizing hard surfaces after water remediation or with mold
growth is in evidence can be done using chlorine bleach mixed at
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