Embedded Files
Photographic Documentation:
Exterior Overview:
Capture multiple angles of the front of the loss, showcasing the building's overall condition and any visible damage.
Include photographs of the property, noting any potential contributing factors (e.g., landscaping, drainage).
Document the building's address and any identifying features.
Interior Room Documentation (Four Corner Shots):
For each affected room, systematically capture photographs from each corner.
Ensure the photographs overlap to essentially provide a 360-degree view of the room.
Focus on a generalized view of the room. We want reviewers to feel like they were there.
Close-Up Shots:
Take close up pictures of areas with visible mold growth or evidence of water damage.
Make sure the image has context explaining where on the property the close up image is.
This is usually done by taking an image from a distance & then close up.
Content Documentation:
Photograph all contents in the work area, including furniture & personal belongings.
Document the location and condition of each item with images showing the damage.
If content is to be packed out, photograph the items before they are packed up in boxes.
Detailed Mold Damage Documentation:
Capture high-resolution close-up photographs of all visible mold growth.
Document the extent and pattern of mold growth on various surfaces.
Include photographs of any water stains or discoloration associated with water damage or mold.
Document any pre-existing damage:
Take good images of damage that is not related to the current loss, but included in the rooms work will be completed.
Lighting and Focus:
Ensure adequate lighting for clear photographs.
Use a flash or supplemental lighting if necessary.
Presence of mold tends to fluoresce under LED flashes.
Maintain sharp focus on all details.
Atmospheric and Moisture Content Readings:
Atmospheric Readings:
Record temperature and relative humidity levels in affected and unaffected areas.
Document readings at multiple locations.
Note any explanations of elevated temperature or humidity. Windows open for instance.
Calculate the humidity ratio (GPP) on these values to determine actual atmospheric issues.
Moisture Content Readings:
Use a moisture meter to measure the moisture content of affected materials (e.g., drywall, wood, carpet).
Document readings on all materials within the affected area
Record the type of material and the location of each reading.
Documentation Forms:
Use standardized water damage forms to record all moisture content data.
Include the date, time, location, and name of the person taking the readings.
Ensure all forms are legible and complete.
Photographs of meter readings will not replace the necessity of the use of standardized moisture logs.
Understanding the Manometer:
Types: Manometers can be U-tube, inclined, or digital.
U-tube manometers typically use liquid (water or mercury) to indicate pressure differences.
Inclined manometers offer greater sensitivity for low-pressure measurements.
Digital manometers provide direct numerical readings.
We either use digital manometers, or the more economical inclined manometer.
Units: Pressure readings can be in various units, including inches of water column (in. w.c.), Pascals (Pa), millimeters of mercury (mmHg), or pounds per square inch (psi).
Ensure you understand the units being used.
We generally use inches of WC.
Recording U-Tube Manometer Readings:
Leveling: Ensure the manometer is placed on a level surface.
Zeroing: Before taking a reading, check that the liquid levels in both arms of the U-tube are equal when there's no pressure difference.
If they're not, adjust the liquid level or note the initial difference.
Reading: When air pressure is applied, the liquid levels will change.
Measure the difference in height between the liquid levels in the two arms.
If measuring positive pressure, the liquid level will be higher on the negative pressure side of the manometer.
If measuring negative pressure, the liquid level will be higher on the positive pressure side of the manometer.
Recording:
Record the pressure difference and the units of measurement.
Note the date, time, and location of the reading.
If applicable, record the direction of the pressure difference (positive or negative).
Example: 0.5 in. w.c. positive. 03/15/2024. 10:00AM. Room 201.
Meniscus:
When reading the liquid level, observe the meniscus (the curved surface of the liquid).
For water, read the bottom of the meniscus.
Recording Inclined Manometer Readings:
These manometers are read in a similar fashion to the U-tube style, however the scale is angled to increase the precision of the reading.
The reading is taken from where the liquid level intersects the scale.
There are 2 tubes that must hang at equal heights, one inside & one outside the containment.
The positive pressure hose goes into the containment.(under negative pressure)
The negative pressure hose stays on the outside of the containment.(under neutral or less negative pressure)
All other steps are the same as a U-tube manometer.
Recording Digital Manometer Readings:
Power On: Turn on the digital manometer.
Zeroing: Press the zero button to calibrate the device.
Reading: The digital display will show the pressure difference.
Recording: Record the numerical reading and the units of measurement.
Note the date, time, and location of the reading.
Digital manometers often have data logging capabilities, which can automate the recording process.
General Recording Tips:
Consistency: Use a consistent method for taking and recording readings.
Accuracy: Take morning & afternoon readings to ensure effective tracking of negative pressurization.
Documentation: Keep detailed records of all readings..
Calibration: Ensure the manometer is regularly calibrated to maintain accuracy.
Safety: If using a mercury manometer, take precautions to avoid spills and inhalation of mercury vapor.
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