Tropical Storm Bertha Causes Property Damage in Puerto Rico

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico - Aug. 5, 2014 - PRLog -- This past weekend, heavy rains and winds pounded parts of the Caribbean, including Puerto Rico.  The storm knocked out power for many and dropped between 3 and 5 inches of rain in Puerto Rico as it crossed the region.

Bertha’s strong winds and heavy rain caused water damage to some homes and buildings.  Whenever water enters a building, no matter the source, it’s important to have it safely removed as quickly as possible.  Even water damage due to clean water, known as Category 1 Water, can result in mold growth in as short as 24 to 48 hours.

Category 2 Water, also known as Grey Water, typically contains a significant amount of biological or physical contaminants that can cause sickness when humans are exposed or if it is accidently consumed.  Examples include toilet water with no feces, sump pump failures and water discharged from a dishwashers or washing machine. Category 2 Water, that is not promptly removed or has remained stagnant for 48–72 hours, may at times be reclassified as Category 3 Water.

Category 3 Water, also known as Black Water, is grossly contaminated. It may contain harmful pathogens, microbes and chemicals that could cause illness. Sources include sewage, seawater, rising water from rivers or streams, ground surface water or standing water.

“During the drying process other contaminates already in the building may also create a health hazard,” said Harry Pena, President of Zimmetry Environmental.  “Materials in buildings that contain asbestos or lead based paints may become aerosolized during the drying process as portions of walls, ceilings and flooring may have to be partially removed or even demolished.  If not conducted properly, the drying process can result in airborne contaminants being spread throughout a property, even into areas not damaged by the water incursion.”

When water damage occurs in Puerto Rico and across the Caribbean, the building science experts at Zimmetry Environmental are ready to respond at a moment’s notice. Their professionals provide testing and consulting services so that buildings can be quickly and safely repaired without risking the health and safety of building occupants and workers.

To learn more about Zimmetry Environmental and their building science services, please visit www.zimmetry.com, call (787) 995.0005 or email info@zimmetry.com.

About Zimmetry Environmental

Since 2002, Zimmetry Environmental has been providing environmental consulting services to building owners and managers, architects, engineers, EHS professionals and Fortune 500 companies.  The company is based in Puerto Rico and provides services across the Caribbean and Central America.  The professionals at Zimmetry offer environmental compliance, indoor air quality (IAQ), asbestos, lead-based paint, Phase I ESAs and general environmental consulting services.