Is It Really Dry? The Science Behind Structural Drying in Utah Homes

When your home experiences water damage, it’s easy to think things are fine once the floors, walls, and ceilings look dry. But appearances can be deceiving. Even when surfaces seem dry, moisture can still be trapped deep inside building materials. At Water Damage Specialists in Lehi, UT, our expert plumbing team specializes in professional Utah water damage restoration and structural drying throughout Utah and Salt Lake counties. Our mission is to ensure your home isn’t just visually dry—it’s completely dry and safe from hidden water damage.

Why “Looks Dry” Isn’t Really Dry

Water can seep into drywall, subfloors, insulation, and framing where it’s hard to detect. If moisture remains inside these materials, it can cause mold growth, musty odors, and long-term structural problems. That’s why our technicians use precise tools and drying methods to confirm that your property is fully dry—not just dry on the surface.

How We Measure Moisture the Right Way

At Water Damage Specialists, we rely on advanced moisture detection technology. During the evaluation, we use non-penetrating meters to find hidden water pockets without damaging walls or flooring. Once drying begins, we embed stainless-steel screws into the affected materials to monitor moisture levels deep inside.

By connecting our moisture meters directly to these screws, we can accurately measure the moisture content in the center of the material—not just on the outer surface. This ensures your structure is completely dry from the inside out before restoration is complete.

Establishing a “Dry Standard”

To ensure accuracy, we establish what’s called a dry standard. We measure moisture levels in an unaffected area of your home using the same type of material. For example, if an unaffected wall shows 11% moisture, our drying goal for affected areas will be no more than 12.1%. This benchmark guarantees your home is restored to its original, healthy condition.

The Importance of Professional Drying

A true water damage restoration professional doesn’t just look at what’s visible—they verify that your home is dry all the way through. Our scientific drying process prevents future issues like mold, material decay, and poor indoor air quality. Whether you’re dealing with a burst pipe, flooded basement, or storm damage, Water Damage Specialists ensures your property is safe, healthy, and structurally sound.

Get Expert Water Damage Restoration in Utah County

If your home has experienced flooding or water damage, don’t rely on looks alone. Trust the certified experts at Water Damage Specialists in Lehi, Utah. We provide complete structural drying, moisture testing, and restoration services for homes and businesses across Utah County and Salt Lake County. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and make sure your home is truly dry.