Water damage in buildings and structures can occur from internal sources such as pipe breaks, condensation, and long-term fixture leakage, or external sources such as flooding, precipitation or firefighting activities. Water damage comes in three categories depending on the contamination level of the source water. Effects from short term Category 1 water damage may only require drying of the affected materials. Effects from long-term water exposure, or Categories 2 and 3 water damage, typically require a closer evaluation of the affected materials and may require removal and replacement of affected materials.
Water effects can be in the form of material deterioration such as decay, corrosion, blistering or debonding; or they can be in the form of staining, mold, mildew or smell. Because damage may be concealed, the water source and intrusion pathways must be understood to locate and identify whether damage exists. Water effects on finishes such as flooring, wall sheathing and ceilings, are often visible or detectable using moisture meters.
YAES has extensive experience evaluating the effects of water damage and routinely performs investigations to determine the cause and source of water infiltration.
YAES services include: