Water damage restoration after fire extinguished at Devon Hills Holiday Park

The firefighting response caused extensive water ingress, which, combined with structural damage and exposure to harsh winter weather over two years, presented unique challenges for the drying and restoration of the complex. When the restoration project finally began, it faced obstacles in terms of environmental conditions, timing, and the sheer scale of the drying effort, requiring deployment of high-capacity industrial dryers/dehumidifiers.

Critical restoration hurdles in a large-scale complex

After the fire had been extinguished and the building made watertight, a thorough drying process was needed to prevent structural damages and mould growth caused by hidden water. However, unavoidable delays meant the structure remained exposed for two years, enduring two severe winters. This prolonged exposure to rain, snow, and condensation further weakened the structural integrity, complicating the drying process.

Winter weather conditions

With the restoration starting during winter, the cold and damp air slowed the drying process, as cooler air retains less moisture. Mechanical drying systems were necessary to maintain warmth and airflow, although this was an energy-intensive approach complicated by on-site power restrictions.

Scale of the project

Covering approximately 800 square meters over two floors, the complex’s substantial size meant drying required large amounts of air circulation. Precise airflow distribution was essential to avoid uneven drying, which could result in structural damage or extended project timelines.

Energy and power limitations

High-capacity drying equipment demanded substantial energy, but the site’s power limitations required a balanced approach to avoid interruptions. The need for a reliable, continuous power source underscored the necessity of efficient fuel management and backup power strategies.

High-capacity drying: a coordinated technical response

To address these diverse challenges, the restoration company enlisted the help of the external contractor, Aggreko, to provide high-capacity drying equipment and a well-coordinated fuel management plan. This collaboration was essential in scaling the drying operation and ensuring the drying equipment operated continuously, even during the holiday period.

Key equipment:

Dantherm TTR 8200 desiccant dehumidifiers

Capable of processing 8,000 cubic meters of air per hour, these dehumidifiers are particularly effective in low temperatures. The desiccant technology absorbs moisture from the air, expelling dry air back into the structure and accelerating moisture removal from surfaces and furnishings. See the Dantherm TTR 8200.

The Dantherm TTR dryers are high-end industrial dehumidifiers using desiccant/adsorption technology, which makes them particularly applicable in cold environments with low dew points. The range encompasses 11 different sizes from the TTR 800 to the TTR 13500. Key information:

• Dehumidification performance: 3.6 kg/h … 74.6 kg/h (at 20°C/60% RH)

• Operating temperature range: -20 to 40°C

• Stainless-steel housing

• Ducted and stackable, which makes it easy to scale the solution

• Suited for a wide variety of applications, including construction, industrial buildings, food, chemical and pharmaceutical production, warehouses, and water damage restoration.

For further details, download the Dantherm TTR range product guide.

Indirect fired heaters

These heaters provide 12,800 cubic meters of warm air per hour, effectively raising internal temperatures to aid the drying process. They offer the advantage of safely circulating dry air without introducing moisture or fumes, making them ideal for indoor spaces. Up to four flex tubes can be connected per unit. See all indirect oil-fired heaters.

Success secured through a combination of right equipment and good management

The restoration project at Devon Hills Holiday Park demonstrates the importance of strategic planning, collaboration, and resource management in complex restoration efforts. The challenges – ranging from delayed project start, to winter conditions, and large-scale drying requirements – highlighted the need for a multi-faceted approach:

• Timely intervention: Beginning drying efforts as soon as possible after water ingress is crucial.

• Equipment capability: The choice of high-capacity drying equipment, such as indirect fired heaters and desiccant dehumidifiers, is essential in managing moisture effectively in large structures during colder months.

• Energy management: Continuous operation of high-powered drying systems can be energy-intensive, necessitating efficient power solutions and fuel management plans.

• Collaborative effort: Effective communication and teamwork between contractors and on-site personnel can help navigate challenges related to scheduling, resource allocation, and project coordination.

Through careful planning, the Devon Hills restoration team was able to address complex environmental and logistical challenges, creating a pathway for the effective drying of the structure and enabling subsequent restoration.

For more information on our market-leading range of water damage restoration solutions, get in touch with our team today.