What is the first activity in a typical drying project?

The first activity in a typical drying project is the extraction of water. This critical step involves removing as much standing water as possible from the affected areas using specialized extraction equipment. Effective water removal is essential as it reduces the overall moisture content in the environment and helps prevent further damage to structures and contents.

If extraction were not performed as the initial task, any remaining water would inhibit the effectiveness of subsequent drying processes and could lead to mold growth or secondary damage, complicating the restoration efforts. Following effective extraction, humidity control and other drying methods can be implemented to manage the remaining moisture and restore the environment to pre-damage conditions. The sequence of these activities is key to achieving the best possible outcomes in a drying project.