In water damage restoration, how is the 'air change rate' commonly measured?

The 'air change rate' in water damage restoration is commonly measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM). This measurement indicates the volume of air that is replaced in a given space within one minute. Understanding air change rate is critical during the drying process, as it helps determine how effectively moisture-laden air is being removed from the affected area and how fresh air is being introduced. Efficient air changes help accelerate the evaporation of moisture from materials and enhance the overall drying process.

In contrast, measuring the affected area in square feet does not provide insight into how air circulation impacts moisture removal. Gallons of water absorbed refers more to the capacity of materials to take in moisture, which is useful but does not measure airflow dynamics. Similarly, the temperature of the environment can influence drying conditions but does not quantify air exchange. Therefore, measuring air change rates in CFM is foundational for effective drying strategies in restoration work.