Saturation
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Saturation is what happens when a material (like drywall, carpet, or wood) has absorbed all the water it can hold—like a sponge that can’t soak up another drop. In water damage, it means the material is at its wettest possible state.
Why It Matters:
- Danger Zone: Saturated materials can collapse, warp, or grow mold within 24-48 hours ⚠️
- Extraction Needed: Requires pumps/vacuums to remove water before drying
- Testing: Pros use moisture meters to check saturation levels (% or “wet/dry” scales)
Example: The carpet was so saturated after the flood, squishing it made water pool on top.
Science Bit: Saturation is why “wet drywall” is usually replaced—it’s like trying to dry a soaked paper towel without tearing it!
💦 Visual: Imagine a cereal bowl full of milk—that’s saturation. Now picture the bowl is your basement wall. 🥛🧱
Pro Tip: If you see free water (puddles/standing water), saturation is guaranteed!
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