How does humidity affect the drying process after water damage?

Humidity plays a critical role in the drying process after water damage. When the humidity level is high, the air is already saturated with moisture, which inhibits the evaporation of water from wet surfaces. This means that excess moisture in the air makes it more difficult for the water on surfaces (like carpets, walls, or structural components) to evaporate into the air. Consequently, higher humidity slows down the overall drying process, which can prolong the time that materials remain wet and may lead to further complications, such as mold growth and structural damage.

In contrast, lower humidity levels facilitate faster evaporation because the air can more effectively absorb moisture from the wet surfaces. This dynamic highlights the importance of managing humidity levels in a water damage situation to promote efficient drying and minimize secondary damage.