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Damage A measure of the physical property damage of a content or material.   Damage Risk Assessment An on-site review of all building and human occupancy concerns and risks by a trained professional. The damage may result in a physical danger to the occupants from building conditions. Safety Note%u003A At all times during water damage and catastrophic flooding%u002C buildings require a damage risk assessment before starting mitigation. See Phase-I Assessment   Damper A passive or mechanical device used to control the volume of air passing through an air outlet%u002C air inlet or duct.   Damp-mopping A procedure using a moistened cotton mop over a relatively clean surface%u002C to remove loose dusts and dirt off of a floor surface. Education Note%u003A Damp mopping is used in between cleanings%u002C for the control of dusts and dirt%u002C since this procedure helps control surface tracking of migrant materials while reducing time and money spent on more intensive maintenance procedures. Damp mopping is a process that is often used right before a floor finish is applied. Damp mopping is also a procedure where small spills can be absorbed into a cotton mop having a neutral detergent%u002C allowing for the easy pickup of the spill%u002C and applying a non-residual cleaning agent.   Damp-Proofing a%u0029 Moisture impervious tar-like materials that are applied to concrete on the outside foundation side protecting the structure from absorbing unwanted moisture and moisture vapor. b%u0029 Control measures using chemical treatments on concrete or masonry to retard the absorption or transmission of water and water vapor. Liability Note%u003A Damp-proofing sealers seldom provide the desirable effect for which they are intended%u002C or the results which were contracted. Contact the manufacturer or distributor of the product for written warrantees and guarantees incase the product fails. As a contractor%u002C make sure the products that are used and installed%u002C are installed in strict accordance with product labelling.   Daseline Data a%u0029 Building and environmental information which are gathered to determine the accumulations of biological%u002C chemical%u002C toxins and other physical properties. b%u0029 The baseline data of acceptable indoor air quality%u002C including thermal%u002C physical and respirable measurements. c%u0029 The baseline data of acceptable indoor air quality verses outside air quality. d%u0029 The efficiency ratio of a ventilation system to operate and separate contaminates from indoor air. e%u0029 The energy efficiency of a building over time. See Background Measurements   Date of Agreement The date shown on the face of an agreement or the date that an agreement has been signed.   Db %u0028Decibel%u0029 A measurement of the intensity of sound. A decibel is one tenth of a bel%u003B an increase of 1 bel is approximately doubles the loudness of a sound.   De Minimis A legal term that states%u003A certain quantities of pollutants that are small enough to be exempt from environmental regulations.   Deadwood Building materials from timber cut from trees that are considered to be dead trees.   Debris Removal In insurance terms%u002C debris removal are those materials as debris that are part of a covered claim that must be removed as part of a loss. Education Note%u003A Most insurance policies cover debris removal expense following a loss covered under the Property Section of the policy. In some instances%u002C if the amount of loss%u002C including debris removal expenses%u002C exceeds the limit of insurance%u002C the insurance carrier may agree to pay an additional 5%u0025 of the limit of the insurance of the damaged property.   Decay In wood%u002C the disintegration caused by the action of fungi%u002C such as wood rot. See Wood Rot Fungi   Decontamination Acceptable mechanical methods to remove a certain contaminate by. Health and safety requirements and mitigation measures necessary to remove a pollutant or contaminate. Sewage Mitigation Note%u003A a%u0029 The physical removal of fresh%u002C gray and sewage water and its microbiological entities. b%u0029 The ability to salvage%u002C clean and disinfect damaged building materials and contents. c%u0029 In some instances%u002C decontamination means the careful physical removal of damaged and saturated building materials. Hazardous Materials Management Note%u003A With regulated waste%u002C decontamination is the removal of hazardous substances from employees and their equipment to the extent necessary to preclude the occurrence of foreseeable adverse health effects.   Decontamination Area One or more indoor rooms or outside areas that are specifically made and used to decontaminate workers and/or equipment.   Decontamination of Employees and Equipment The removal of contaminates from surfaces of reusable clothing and equipment through cleaning and sanitizing. The cleaning and sanitizing of employees with good hygiene practices. Health and Safety Note%u003A No employee or equipment exposed at the job site should be released until cleaning and sanitizing has been completed.   Decor A combination of materials%u002C finishes and furnishings that creates a particular style of interior decorating.   Deductible The dollar amount that a policy holder agrees to pay in the event of a covered loss. The insurance company pays for the remaining damage up to the limit of the policy.   Deductible Clause In an insurance policy%u002C a deductible clause is the agreed amount to which a policy holder is responsible for during a covered loss. The insurance company will pay to repair a covered loss minus the deductible amount as shown in the declarations. The deductible shown in the declarations applies separately to each loss.   Deductible Collection That portion of an insurance policy which the insured is personally responsible for to the restoration contractor or retailer. Legal Liability Note%u003A Caution should be taken by contractors when requesting the deductible from an insured. By accepting money%u002C the contractor is agreeing to provide services in trade. Until it can be established there is coverage for the claim%u002C the contractor may be at risk of returning the money or any future amount owed to the insured%u002C if the contractors contract states%u002C they agree to bill the insurer for the balance owed and not the insured.   Deduction The amount of money deducted from the contract sum by a written change order.   Defect A condition or characteristic that detracts from a standard appearance%u002C strength%u002C or durability of an object or material.   Defect%u002C Latent A defect in the manufacturing of a product that is neither apparent or visible upon reasonable inspection prior to use of the product%u002C but which becomes apparent at a later time. Legal Liability Note%u003A In the case of a latent defect%u002C the cause of the complaint should be established and the parties should come to a mutually acceptable resolution of the problem.   Defect%u002C Recourse A process of addressing a defect within the warrantee guidelines of a manufacturer or industry. Legal Liability Note%u003A The retailer%u002C contractor or installer%u002C should notify the retailer or manufacturer of any and all visible defects prior to installation%u002C whenever such notice is possible. If the visible defect is noted by the retailer/contractor/installer and reported to the manufacturer prior to installation%u002C the manufacturer should work with the retailor/contractor for a mutually acceptable method of correction or replacement. If such notice is not possible%u002C the retailer/contractor should take reasonable action to resolve the situation%u002C with due regard to minimixing the costs that may be incurred. A retailer/contractor who knowingly installs a visibly defective merchandise without following the notification procedures outlined above or attached to the product%u002C may have no resource against the manufacture.   Defect%u002C Visible An obvious defect that can be readily and easily discerned prior to or at the time of installation and/or prior to use.   Deflooding The physical removal of standing flood waters from buildings during the emergency clean-up phase.   Defoamer A chemical agent that is added to a liquid to reduce foaming problems. In carpet cleaning foaming becomes a problem when too much detergent or soap-base products are present.   Degenerative Disease A disorder characterized by the gradual loss of some human function. For example%u002C chronic exposure to mould and bacterial toxins are known to contribute and cause gradual immune suppression.   Degradation A deterioration of a material from light%u002C humidity%u002C temperature%u002C other elements or improper use.   Degree Day A fuel/temperature measurement%u002C based upon temperature difference and time. Education Note%u003A A degree day is used in estimating fuel consumption and specifying nominal heating loads of a building in winter. For any one day%u002C when the mean temperature is less than 65%u00B0F%u002C there exist as many degree days as there are Fahrenheit degrees difference in temperature between the mean temperature for the day and 65%u00B0F%u002C which is the base temperature in the U.S..   Degree of Compaction The measurement of soil as related to its density%u002C %u0028its compaction%u0029 based on a standard formula.   Degree of Saturation The ratio of the volume of water in a given material to the volume of the material in its normal dry %u0028acclimatised%u0029%u002C usable state. The degree of saturation is expressed as a percentage.   Dehumidification The process of removing humidity. The condensation of water vapour from air by cooling it below the dewpoint%u002C or the removal of water vapour from air by chemical or physical means. Restorative Drying Note%u003A Often dehumidification can be accomplished by opening doors and windows to a dryer atmosphere%u002C and dehumidification is accellerated through forced air movement%u002C and the use of engineering controls and devises such as dehumidifiers and air movers.   Dehumidification Curve In water damaged buildings and restorative drying%u002C the measurement of moisture in ambient air while the building remains wet%u002C as compared to the moisture measurements in ambient air while the building is in the process of drying.   Dehumidification Equipment Drying Performance The relationship between the dehumidification equipment and its ability to function properly%u002C compared against the load of relative humidity in a wet building atmosphere and wet materials. Restorative Drying Note%u003A As far as the dehumidification equipment itself is concerned%u002C the dehumidification equipment drying performance must be considered by calculating%u003A a%u0029 the manufacturer performance figures %u0028charts%u0029 of the dehumidification equipment to which the machine can operate efficiently at ideal ambient temperatures and humidity in the building%u003B b%u0029 the amperage ratings of the dehumidifier averaging 80%u00B0F.%u002C at 60%u0025 RH%u003B c%u0029 the ability of the dehumidifiers compressor to increase BTUs in atmosphere at varying temperatures and humidity%u003B d%u0029 the efficiency capacity of collection coils or desiccant beds to exchange moisture vapor for liquid water at varying temperatures and humidity.   Dehumidification Shock A term used in restorative drying%u002C to describe the process and means of dramatically decreasing the ambient humidity in a wet building environment within a relatively short period of time. Education and Restorative Drying Note%u003A A dehumidification shock approach is warranted when the environment is severely wet and where time is on the side of mould growth%u002C or where secondary damage is about to occur%u002C if the trapped building water and humidity are not abated within a short period of time including a matter of hours. Large refrigerant and desiccant equipment are necessary to provide dehumidification shock. Calculating the grains of moisture in wet air%u002C making assumptions about the amount of trapped water and moisture in building materials along with temperature and humidity readings%u002C must carefully be calculated for a dehumidification shock equation before considering using this dehumidification process   Dehumidifier a%u0029 An air cooler or washer used for lowering the moisture content of the air passing through it%u003A b%u0029 An absorption or adsorption machine designed specifically for removing unwanted moisture from air. Adjuster/Contractor Restorative Drying Note%u003A Dehumidifiers may be similar in function and design%u002C but they are not alike when it comes to restorative drying of wet buildings. Specially designed dehumidifiers are often required to dry wet buildings properly. Commercial size dehumidifiers are equipment capable of removing from 15 to 100 gallons of humidified moisture in air per day. Although a dehumidifier may function properly in a wet room%u002C the dehumidifier may not effect the dehumidification process of a wet wall%u002C ceiling or subfloor. The dehumidification of wet walls for example%u002C requires special techniques and equipment to dry the wall cavity properly%u002C and the equipment must do so within a reasonable time before mold growth occurs. See Desiccant Drying%u002C Psychometrics%u002C Refrigerant Drying%u002C Restorative Drying   Dehydration a%u0029 The removal of water vapor from air through the use of absorbing or adsorbing materials%u003B b%u0029 The removal of water from stored goods. Restorative Drying Note%u003A The process of dehydration is important and must be considered as the preferred process when books%u002C documents%u002C film and other media have been effected by excessive high humidity or a flooding event.   Delamination The separating or detaching of a primary material from its composite matrix or its secondary materials. Education Note%u003A Delamination is usually is a result of wear and tear%u002C but delamination can be a result of increased exposures to environmental conditions%u002C including sun light and UV%u002C heat%u002C too little or too much humidity%u002C air movement causing drying%u002C and water damages causing release of glue and adhesive binders.   Delay An event or condition that results in the stopping or the slowdown of a project.   Deliquescence The absorption of moisture from the air by certain salts in plaster or brick%u002C resulting in damp spots to appear like crystalline deposits%u002C or damp spots that appear to be darker than the surrounding material.   Deluge Sprinkler System A dry-pipe sprinkler system designed for geographical areas that may experience temperatures at or below freezing. The dry-pipe sprinkler system is actuated by heat or smoke detection devices which then turn on valves to admit water into the dry-pipe.   Demand Control A mechanical or electronically activated device which controls the kW demand levels in a building by shedding electrical loads when the kW demand exceeds a pre-determined set point.   Demolition The purposeful intentional destruction of part or all of a building or material.   Denitrifying Bacteria Anaerobic sewage bacteria in soil under buildings that are capable of anaerobic respiration%u002C while using the nitrate ion as a substitute for molecular oxygen during their metabolism. See Soil-Gas   Density The thickness and compactness of a material. The ratio of the mass of an object to its volume.   Deoderants Deodorants that are used in buildings after a flood are suppose to remove or destroy musty-like odours and other odours. Hygienists find that deodorants leave occupants with impression that odour problems have been abated%u002C which%u002C in most instances they have not. Deodorants are to be used sparingly%u002C and must not be used as a masking agent%u002C producing a false positive sense of clean air. See Masking Agents   Depreciation A loss in value or worth from all causes.   Deratitis Infammation An inflammation and/or irritation of the skin. Health and Safety Note%u003A Dermatitis inflammation can be a concern to water damage workers from excessive chemical exposures%u002C and allergic reactions associated with constant contact to flood waters and skin irritants. See Athletes Foot%u002C Contact Dermatitis   Desiccant Dehumidifiers Machines which are designed to adsorb pints of water per hour over a bed of dessicating materials%u002C usually in the form of a wheel inside a machine. Education Note%u003A Only part of the dessicant wheel is exposed to the wet environment intake and the other part of %u005Bwet%u005D wheel is exhausted out of the dessicant machine through warm forced air and ducting. Dessicant Dehumidifiers are very effective in reducing unwanted moisture to relative humidity levels of less than 10%u0025. See Refrigerant Dehumidifiers and Dehumidification%u002C Dri-Eaz   Desiccate To dry thoroughly or the process to make a material or environment dry by removing moisture content.   Desorption The removal of excess water and moisture that has adsorbed into building and content materials. See Dehumidifiers%u002C Desiccant Dehumidifiers%u002C Dehumidification   Detached Dwelling A structure that is intended for habitation and is surrounded by exterior walls%u002C with open space.   Detached Garage A garage which is free standing and whose exterior walls are surrounded by open space.   detaching of Vanities and Counters In sewage contamination detaching of vanities and counters means%u002C the physical detaching of the cabinet or counter from the wall to inspect for sewage effluents or water behind and under the cabinet or counter.   Detection Limit The smallest amount of a chemical that can be detected by a specific instrument or scientific method.   Detergent A water soluble compound capable of suspending dirt and other organics. Detergents can emulsify oils and act as a wetting agent. Caution%u003A detergents with phosphates have been banned in many parts of the nation%u002C because they are one source of pollution which cause environmental hazards to lakes and streams. Detergents residues should not be discharged into storm drains. Education Note%u003A Detergents act-like sanitizer%u002C since they suspend oils%u002C grease and organisms. Detergents need to be rinsed out and off of contaminated surfaces to work properly. Detergents work best if they are allowed to have a surface contact dwell time%u002C are agitated into a material%u002C and are used in warm water. Detergents work better than disinfectants while in the presence of dirt and oil%u002C and much bacteria%u002C such as sewage. See Eutrophication   Detergent Cleansing In sewage contamination of salvageable but contaminated building materials%u002C detergent cleaning means%u002C warm water washing and agitation of the surface with scrub brushes or electric floor scrubber. See Rewashing%u002C Sewage Terms   Detritus Tank A settling tank that allows debris to collect sediment without interrupting the flow of liquid.   Detrusion The shearing of wood along the grain.   Dew The moisture vapor condensed on objects at or near ground level. Dew is a result of temperature having fallen below the dew point temperature of the surrounding air.   Dewatering The technical name for the mechanical removal of vast amounts of standing water from an area%u002C such as a pond%u002C a farm field%u002C a construction site%u002C or even a submersed sub-grade parking structure. Dewatering requires the use of commercial piston driven and/or diaphragm pumps%u002C having an outlet of 4%u0022 or greater. Mitigation Note%u003A The physical removal of standing sewage%u002C water and sludge off of ground. The resulting product%u002C is water saturated ground which can now be tilled%u002C remediated or aerated naturally once dewatered.   Dewpoint a%u0029 The surface temperature at which moisture will condense out of the air onto a surface%u003B The surface temperature varies with the relative humidity. b%u0029 With mixed ratio and barometric pressure constant%u002C the temperature to which air must be cooled in order to attain saturation by water vapour.   dewpoint Acceleration A forced process by which the specific relative temperature and humidity results in condensation on cooling coils or desiccant beds of a dehumidifier.   Dewpoint Depression The difference between dry bulb and dew point temperatures %u0028oF DB- oF DP%u0029.   Dewpoint Related to New Building Materials The acclimation of new building materials in a new environment before installation. Education Note%u003A Problems related with dew point and a new atmosphere having moisture and vapor condensation problems%u003A - Concrete slabs and new flooring%u003A Concrete slabs are measured for moisture levels using the calcium chloride test method and pH tests have been conducted. Installation Note%u003A The floor covering installer has taken great pains in ensuring the project will go as error-free as possible. Several days later%u002C the flooring is installed and in less than a month%u002C blisters begin to appear and/or adhesive begins oozing from the floor covering seams. Inspectors Note%u003A The floor is opened up and inspected and it has been determined%u002C the adhesive did not cure%u0021 Next%u002C a series of events begin to take place establishing the guilt or failure of the flooring installer and/or manufacturer. Liability/Litigation Note%u003A The manufacturer is brought in to establish whether their products are defective and the litigation cycle %u0028i.e. expense%u002C time%u002C damage to customer goodwill and reputation%u002C etc.%u0029 begins yet again. This all-too-familiar scenario will continue to play itself out%u002C with the current %u0022facts%u0022 creating more questions and confusion than answers. The likelihood is that this problem will continue to increase in frequency%u002C with the confusion increasing - unless the influences of dewpoint in the building are considered. Installers Note%u003A Dew point does a nearly indistinguishable imitation of classic moisture %u0022problems%u0022 that can result in real floor covering installation concerns. Yet%u002C dewpoint is in reality%u002C a transitory effect%u002C which once detected%u002C can be controlled at the time prior to installation%u002C if the installer is made aware of its existence and how to control the potential detrimental effects.   Dewpoint Temperature a%u0029 A temperature at which a given water vapor content and constant pressure%u002C are capable of producing condensation of water from an atmosphere. b%u0029 The temperature at which any gas begins to condense. c%u0029 A point in temperature which moist air becomes saturated %u0028100%u0025 relative humidity%u0029 with water vapour when cooled at a constant pressure. See Enthalpy   Dewpoint%u002C Ambient The temperature to which indoor air must be cooled%u002C at a given pressure and water-vapour content%u002C for it to reach saturation.   Dextrin %u0028Anylin%u002C Starch Gum%u0029 A starch-based compound used for wall sizing and wallpaper adhesive. As a paste%u002C the starch is mould-loving when wet%u002C or the walls are damp for periods of time.   D-Grade Wood Specified wood for indoor use only.   Differential In the HVAC%u002C the differential difference is between the points where a mechanical or electronic sensor controller automatically turns %u0022on%u0022 and %u0022off.%u0022 If a thermostat turns a furnace on a 69%u00B0 and the differential is 3%u00B0%u002C the burner will be turned off at 72%u00B0.   Differential Levelling A method for determining the difference in elevation between two points using a level and a rod.   Differential Pressure The difference in static pressure between two locations.   Differential Settlement An uneven downward movement of the foundation of a structure%u002C usually caused by varying soil conditions%u002C compaction or building load%u002C resulting in cracks and distortions in the foundation and slab.   Diffuser A circular%u002C square%u002C or rectangular air distribution outlet%u002C generally located in the ceiling and comprised of deflecting vanes or louvers%u002C discharging supply air in various directions and planes%u002C and arranged to promote mixing of primary air with secondary room air.   Diffusion Rate A measure of the tendency of one gas or vapour to disperse into or mix with another gas or vapour. This rate depends on the density of the vapour or gas%u002C as compared with that of air%u002C which is given a value of 1.   Dilution a%u0029 The process of changing or diluting a solvent from one strength to another or a mixture of substances into another. b%u0029 Increasing the proportion of solvent or a diluent %u0028liquid%u0029 to solute or particulate matter %u0028solid%u0029. c%u0029 The process of mixing and exchanging contaminated or humidified air with less contaminated or humidified air. d%u0029 The change in temperature%u002C humidity and air mass in a building with new or treated temperature%u002C humidity and air mass.   Dilution Ratio The ratio of a solvent cleaning agent or a disinfectant concentrate%u002C to be diluted down to its recommended use.   Dimensional Stability a%u0029 The ability of wood and other building materials to maintain their natural%u002C man-made or engineered configuration without undue stress. b%u0029 A building material capable of enduring indefinite structural effluences under normal conditions. Construction Note%u003A Building materials which under normal conditions maintain their dimensional stability%u002C but under abnormal conditions%u002C their dimensional stability can be effected by temperature%u002C stress%u002C load%u002C humidity%u002C moisture and decay.   Diminished Property Value A proportionally smaller value to a property due to a damage. Diminished property value is a lessening or decreasing of property value as a result of some type of damage. In river flooding for example%u002C a dwelling may not have the same property value it had prior to a catastrophic loss. While the dwelling itself was repaired%u002C the overall value of the dwelling may have been affected by the environmental conditions surrounding the property. When an antique piece of furniture has been damaged%u002C it may have been professionally restored%u002C but because of the damage%u002C it may have sustained a diminished value. In a fire damaged property%u002C where antique contents are present%u002C the removal of years of patina%u002C during the cleaning and restoration process%u002C will result in a diminished property value.   Dimorphic Fungus A filamentous fungus having the ability to exhibit alternate growth forms. A fungus exhibiting yeast-like cells at 98.6%u00B0F %u002837%u00B0C%u0029%u003B and exhibiting filamentous mould growth at room temperature.   Direct Costs The labour%u002C material%u002C equipment%u002C subcontractor%u002C and other costs directly incorporated into the repair or construction.   Direct Expense All costs that are directly incurred by or chargeable to a project or claim.   Direct Exposure Pathways An exposure pathway where the point of exposure is at the source. The control of the direct exposure pathways requires containing the release from any other areas or parts of the building%u002C including ventilation duct air return to the building.   Direct Reading Instruments a%u0029 Moisture detection instruments which give an immediate reading and indication of the percentage of moisture content in or on a material. b%u0029 Humidity and temperature recording instruments give an immediate readout of the temperature and humidity in ambient air. Some humidity and moisture instruments will automatically calculate dew point. Other humidity and moisture sensors readout on strip charts%u002C while more scientific equipment can datalog. c%u0029 Single and multi-gas instruments will provide an immediate indication of the concentration of oxygen%u002C flammable and explosive gases and vapors. Other direct reading instruments measure certain aspects of indoor air quality and comfort levels.   Disaster Management Trained companies and personnel whose job it is%u002C is to investigate and assess a building damage for an insurance company%u002C adjusting company%u002C city%u002C state or federal agency%u002C or a building owner. Disaster management companies may be asked to write an independent scope of work for the containment and control of the disaster. Quite often%u002C the disaster management company is retained to mitigate primary and secondary building structure%u002C building material and content damage%u002C including disaster recovery services. See Disaster Recovery   Disaster Recovery Trained companies whose job includes the recovery of building and content damaged due to fires%u002C floods%u002C earthquakes%u002C tornadoes and hurricanes. Disaster recovery is meant as an emergency primary loss recovery method for the containment%u002C mitigation and damage control and relocation%u002C before secondary damage occurs. Prompt and immediate disaster recovery and relocation services are designed to save tens of thousands and sometimes millions of dollars in unnecessary property and content damage. See Business Loss Interruption   Disaster Relocation The temporary relocation of homes and businesses by insurance companies and FEMA after an emergency. Included in disaster relocation%u002C is the need to inventory%u002C salvage%u002C recover%u002C restoration and relocation of undamaged and damaged contents%u002C computers%u002C software%u002C microfiche%u002C machinery%u002C office furniture and records. See Disaster Recovery   Disaster Repair 1%u0029 The temporary emergency repair or services necessary to stop%u002C reduce or eliminate a disaster occurrence or hazard. 2%u0029 Disaster repair is the repair and replacement of damage caused by a disaster. Mitigation Note%u003A In water damage remediation%u003A a%u0029 It is the removal of all standing water in a building and/or under a building. b%u0029 It is the custody%u002C care and control of all effected building materials and contents%u002C and reduction of further damage by technically trained employees. See Water Damage Industry Standards of Care   Disaster Response Time In localities within a 25 mile radius%u002C it is the critical emergency response time %u0028usually within 1-2 hours from the time being notified%u0029%u002C which trained emergency response technicians are able to respond to a water%u002C fire or other types of property damage.   Discharge A legal or illegal method of disposing non-hazardous or regulated waste. Mitigation Note%u003A The most appropriate removal method of blackwater sewage from a building through mechanical means is discharging the waste back into the sewer system. In some communities%u002C this may be illegal%u002C since the waste must be contained and properly disposed. See Commercial Sewage%u002C Domestic Sewage%u002C Hospital Sewage   Disclaimer and General Release of Liability In brief%u002C a written document that describes the methods that are to be used for the containment and removal of a contaminate%u002C and if the methods are not completely followed or allowed by the property owner%u002C you%u002C the contractor%u002C cannot be held liable for any claims resulting from partial contaminate%u002C removal or treatment. %u0028See your attorney for exact terminology%u0029.   Discolouration A change in hue%u002C shade%u002C or colour from the original or adjacent colour.   Discontinuous Construction Wall A method of construction whereby structural members are staggered to reduce sound between party and common walls or a floor.   Disinfectant Toxics Disinfectants and detergents which leave irritant or toxic residues behind after application. They are harmful to the respiratory tract and they may harm humans and animals.   Disinfectants Chemicals that kill microorganisms. Commercial disinfectants are made of different chemicals and concentrations. Education Note%u003A All disinfectants%u002C after a disinfecting application in a building%u002C are to be rinsed %u0028flushed%u0029 out. Safety and Caution Note%u003A Some chemicals disinfectants have pesticide in them%u002C they are not to be used in water damage mitigation on finished materials without the customers knowledge.   Disintegration A deterioration%u002C crumbling or flaking of a material caused by oxidation%u002C pressure%u002C expansion%u002C freezing or exposure to the elements.   Dispersion In indoor air quality%u002C the general term describing contaminates consisting of particulate matter suspended in air%u003B also%u002C the mixing and dilution of a contaminant in the ambient environment.   Dispute Resolution When a dispute arises between the insured and insurance company%u002C a contractor or another third party%u002C dispute resolution is necessary to settle the differences between all the parties involved. The parties may decide to support their claims by retaining their own independent appraiser. Each party%u0027s appraiser is an able and impartial appraiser%u002C and the plaintiff party must notify the defendant party of the appraiser%u0027s name and qualifications within 20 days after a demand is received. The appraisers will then set the amount of loss based on their own assessment and calculations. If the appraisers cannot agree as to the amount of the loss and the work product necessary to complete the loss%u002C it may be agreed by the parties%u002C the appraisers themselves may choose an impartial umpire. If the parties cannot reach a settlement agreement through an umpire%u002C the parties will often agree to go forward with binding arbitration. See Binding Arbitration%u002C Mediation%u002C Mediation v. Arbitration   Do Not Enter A posted sign at all entry and exit areas of a work area and areas which may have a hazard%u002C must have do not enter signs clearly posted. Education Note%u003A In water damage mitigation/remediation%u002C the Do Not Enter words should be pre-printed%u002C and several blank lines are to be added below the Do Not Enter%u002C for words that describe the reasons and potential hazards. Also%u002C a space for a signature and company information%u002C in case there are questions. Signs that have the date and time when the sign was posted%u002C the sign must have the date and time the sign is to be removed. See Confined Space   Document Drying A restorative process by which wet%u002C humidified or contaminated documents have excess moisture removed. Education Note%u003A Document drying is typically accomplished through several processes including vacuum freeze-drying%u002C cryogenic freeze-drying and desiccant dehumidification. Properly completed%u002C document drying is effective on bound rare books%u002C general books and ledgers%u002C paper file documents%u002C blue prints%u002C drawings%u002C maps%u002C microfilm%u002C microfiche%u002C x-ray film%u002C photographs%u002C negatives%u002C aperture cards%u002C magnetic media%u002C audio/video tapes%u002C historical documents and some art work. See Thermaline   Document Reprocessors The name of a U.S. company specializing in damage control and restoration of fine and historical documents that have become wet%u002C mouldy or smoke damaged throughout the world. Contact Document Reprocessors west coast office at 800/437-9464%u003B east coast 888/437-9464%u002C or www. documentreprocessors.com. See Thermaline   Doffing A word meant to describe the most appropriate method of removing personal protective equipment%u002C taking into consideration that it may be contaminated. See Donning   Domestic Hot Water Hot water in supply pipes coming from a water heater%u002C as distinguished from hot water used in recirculating pipes for house heating.   Domestic Sewage Residential sewage which was created in a residential community. It is the waste that flows out of residential toilets%u002C showers%u002C sinks%u002C tubs%u002C dishwashers and garbage disposal%u002C which are gravity carried away from the property to a sanitary sewer. See Commercial Sewage%u002C Hospital Sewage   Domestic Water Any water that comes from a pipe for domestic use. Water which has been treated and made clean%u002C or is natural%u002C including pumped well water%u002C and in some situations recycled water.   Donning A word meant to describe the putting on and wearing of appropriate personal protective equipment and respiratory protection. The wearer must take into consideration before they wear the PPE%u002C when it comes time to remove the safety equipment%u002C it may be contaminated%u002C and how are they planning to do this safely%u003F See Doffing   Dormant A state in which bacteria%u002C yeasts and fungi can suspend and live without much moisture. They become active again when available moisture or high humidity is present. Many organisms may die%u002C but those that live%u002C will thrive and develop their dormant inactive buds or cells once again.   Dormer Window An upright window which breaks the surface of a sloping roof.   Dose response An adverse effect on a biological agent or organism which causes a particular physical%u002C chemical response or change.   Dosimeter %u0028Dose Meter%u0029 An instrument used to determine the full-shift exposure a person has received to a physical hazard.   Double Bagging A method of placing one bag into another of equal size and shape. Education Note%u003A Double bagging is a control and often a safety method%u002C for holding a contaminated item or substance. The intent of the double bag is to protect the user%u002C other employees%u002C and the work environment from a contaminate exposure. The exposure results from the outer layer or the inner layer being punctured%u002C having a leakage or breakage.   Draft A movement or current of air. A draft is the pressure difference which causes a current of air or gases to flow through a flue%u002C chimney%u002C heater%u002C or space%u003B or to a localized effect caused by one or more factors of high air velocity%u002C low ambient temperature%u002C or direction of air flow. A draft is often described as a leak or break in insulation or a barrier having two different temperature properties.   Drag Wand A drag wand refers to one of the earliest carpet cleaning and extraction tools used after the invention of carpet steam cleaning machines. Water Damage Mitigation Note%u003A A weighted carpet extraction wand extracts flood water deep out of a carpeted surface. Drag wands weigh from 35 pounds to up to 100 pounds. Newer style drag wands have wheels on the back side%u002C allowing for easier use of the drag tool. See Carpet Roller   Dri-Eaz Dehumidifiers A manufacturer of quality dehumidifiers across the United States%u002C Canada and Europe. Dri-Eaz Corporation makes commercial size refrigerant and desiccant dehumidifiers that can remove large amounts of airborne moisture from a humidified atmosphere per day. See EBAC%u002C Phoenix Dehumidifiers%u002C Restorative Drying   DriZone A trademark name and process of the Dri-Eaz Corporation. The DriZone is a restorative drying method which Dri-Eaz says ...is a top-down drying process for wet carpets%u002C pad and certain building materials%u002C under clean water conditions. Education Note%u003A To understand the DriZone process Dri-Eaz teaches a hands-on class in a specially designed wet building environment in Burlington Washington.   Drop In HVAC terminology%u002C a drop in air pressure or temperature is the vertical distance between the base of the outlet and the bottom of the air stream at the end of the horizontal throw.   Drum and Bin Liners A 6-mm or greater plastic polyethylene insert%u002C sometimes they are manufacturer made to fit a specific container size and shape. Education Note%u003A Drum and bin liners are capable of holding liquids and solids to an amount which would fill at least 3/4 of the drum or bin%u002C as determined by the liner manufacturer. Drum and bin liners are made to hold specific liquids%u002C and depending on the liquid%u002C a certain type of liner may be called for.   Drums and Bins Portable storage devises that are capable of holding a specific amount of waste.   Dry Air The ambient air in a building%u0027s atmosphere that is acceptable after dehumidification. Restorative Drying Note%u003A a%u0029 As it relates to water damaged buildings%u002C it is the indoor air%u002C and trapped air in wall cavities%u002C partitions%u002C cabinets%u002C under subfloors and in attics%u002C which has been returned back to its previous acceptable dry air state. b%u0029 As pointed out in Dri-Eaz Restorative Drying Manual%u002C dry air weighs about 14 pounds per cubic foot at sea level. In psychometrics%u002C dry air is used as a reference point. If the specific humidity of the air is 60 GPP%u002C then the air is holding 60 grains of moisture in each pound of air. See Dehumidification%u002C Grains of Moisture   Dry Bulb Temperature a%u0029 The temperature registered by an ordinary thermometer. The dry bulb temperature represents the measure of sensible heat%u002C or the intensity of heat. b%u0029 The temperature of the air when measured for comparison with wet-bulb temperature. Most standard thermometer readings are the dry-bulb temperature.   Dry Bulb Temperature%u002C Adjusted The average of the air temperature and the mean radiant temperature at a given location. The adjusted dry bulb temperature is approximately equivalent to operative temperature at air motionless than 80 fpm when the mean radiant temperature is less than 120%u00B0F   Dry Ice Blasting The process using dry ice shavings and specially manufactured compressed air equipment%u002C to micro-finely disperse the dry ice onto a contaminated surface for removal of a contaminate. The results of the ice blasting provides for a clean surface%u002C while the dry ice residue disperses into harmless carbon dioxide gas. Depending on the application%u002C dry ice blasting can be as fine as debride and remove smoke and soot from a mural or painting%u002C or aggressive to remove char from wood. The dry-ice blasting or treatment residue is carbon monoxide gas. The carbon monoxide gas itself is not harmful to humans in open air environments. The use of dry-ice in confined space consumes the available oxygen and this condition must be avoided.   Drydown Process The second phase of a building water damage%u002C after extraction and containment of flood waters%u002C which allows for wet building materials%u002C humidifies atmospheres%u002C and wet contents%u002C to start drying.   Drying Conditions The ideal conditions after cleanup which allow a wet building to become ready for drying. Restorative Drying Note%u003A In water damage remediation%u002C it is the condition of the indoor air at any one time during the building drying process. a%u0029 The drying conditions of a wet building are influenced by the amount of standing water%u002C water vapour in air%u002C saturated water in wall cavities%u002C floors and contents%u002C condensed moisture vapour on other building materials and contents%u002C the relative humidity and temperature outside%u002C and the ambient humidity and temperature indoors. b%u0029 The building drying conditions must take into account the amount of water that flooded the building%u002C its source%u002C is the water considered contaminated%u002C the amount of porous building materials%u002C the amount of total moisture content in saturated building materials and contents. See Dehumidification%u002C Thermalgraphic Chart Recording   Dry-Rot Fungi Dry rot fungi Merulius lacrymans flourishes under conditions of bad ventilation and high humidity. This fungi is more efficient at destroying wood than any other type of fungus predator. In a flourishing or proliferating stage%u002C it can attack wood which would normally be considered too dry to be attacked. Education Note%u003A Most persons feel that the presence of sun light and air alone may dry out a structure from saprophytic fungi%u002C which is not true. What also is not true%u002C when either wet rot or dry rot fungi dominate and attack a structure%u002C simple drying surfaces of building materials alone%u002C will not address underlying fungal issues. While wet rot fungi cannot penetrate brick%u002C stone or metal%u002C which does not have the aid of an airstream that can circumvent the other side of a wall%u002C dry rot fungi can penetrate or pass through walls in search of new wood to attack. See Wet-Rot Fungi   Drywall See Gypsum Board   Duct a%u0029 The air supply and returns of metal or flex duct attached to a heating and air conditioning ventilation system. b%u0029 A passageway made of sheet metal or other suitable material%u002C not necessarily leak tight%u002C used for conveying air or other gas at low pressures.   Duct Liner Coating A permanent adhesive painted-on coating in ventilation systems for unfaced fibreglass duct liner insulation%u002C metal vents%u002C drip and drain pans%u002C and sound board.   Duct Velocity Air velocity through the duct cross section. When solid particulate material is present in the duct air stream%u002C the duct velocity must exceed the minimum transport velocity.   Due Diligence A legal term%u002C describing a contractor or responsibly parties actions%u002C and their responsibility to address and reduce reasonably anticipated problems based on their agreement.   Dump Fees Costs directly attributable to the job%u002C where land-fills and hauling contractors charge for the disposal of waste. See Waste Hauling and Disposal   Dust a%u0029 Suspended solid particles in air which settle-out in buildings through doors%u002C windows and ventilation systems. b%u0029 An air suspension %u0028aerosol%u0029 of particles of any solid material%u002C usually having a particle size less than 100 micrometers%u0028um%u0029. Education Note%u003A a%u0029 Natural dust includes organic and inorganic particles such as soil erosion by wind which entrains into a building%u002C and decaying organic matter and other airborne debris that feed bacteria%u002C fungi and yeast. b%u0029 Human dust created by the sloughing of dead skin cells that feed dust mites. See Respirable Dusts   Dust Solid particles of organic debris including dirt and lint that are airborne and settle on surfaces through the influence of gravity.   Dust Collector An air-cleaning devise that is designed to capture and remove heavy particulates from work areas before they enter outside air. A vacuum bag in a workshop capturing saw dust is an example of a dust collector.   Dust Collectors Another name given to dirty ventilation systems%u002C drapes and carpets that are not maintained.   Dust Mites Arthropods which use dead skin cells as a food source. Persons which allergies and who breathe mites can have allergic reactions to dust mites. Dust mites are often found in dirty building and specifically carpets. Dust mites multiply rapidly in high humidity.   Dust Spot Test In HVAC metal ducts%u002Cthe dust spot test is a measurement of the amount of settled dust on a ventilation duct surface. Education Note%u003A Dust spot tests are also used to determine the residual dusts after cleaning %u0028vacuuming%u0029 the metal duct runs. The removal of surface dusts in a ventilation does not warrant the ducts are free of microbial influences. Only after cleaning followed by sanitization with an EPA registered disinfectant specially produced for ventilation systems%u002C should a duct be considered partially sanitized. Refer to NADCA 1992-01.   Dwell Time The time necessary for a detergent%u002C disinfectant or sanitizer to work to its maximum potential.   Dwelling In insurance terms%u002C dwelling means the attached and detached structures on the premises used principally as a private residence. See Coverage-A   Dynamic Pressure Having to do with forced energy and motion%u002C also known as kinetic pressure%u002C or kinematics%u002C the study of motion without reference to forces. Education Note%u003A In water damage mitigation%u002C dynamic pressure is the bulk flow of forcing trapped moisture in building materials from a liquid to a vapor. Once dynamic pressure can be accomplished%u002C wet air in buildings should be exhausted and exfiltrated%u002C through removal or dehumidification. See Advection%u002C Exfiltration%u002C Static Air%u002C Turbidity Air Currents   Dysentery A disorder of the gastrointestinal tract. The disease frequently results from infection from Shigella%u002C a disease transmitted from fecal contaminated water%u002C food and hand to mouth contact. Health and Safety Note%u003A Dysentery is common in sewage contaminations in buildings from black water flooding. See Cross-Contamination%u002C Fomites   Dyspnea A health condition resulting in a shortness of breath%u002C difficult laboured breathing.