May 2024 Drymatic Winners of the Month
Dan Haynes – Dynamic Services (Rockhampton)
Video of the month - May 2024
In the world of restoration, every job presents its own unique set of challenges and rewards. In this May submission for the Video Job of the Month, we celebrate Dan Haynes from Dynamic Services in Rockhampton for his outstanding work on a restoration project involving a failed shut-off solenoid on a washing machine. Dan’s meticulous approach, innovative problem-solving, and dedication to customer satisfaction have earned him the video Job of the Month title for May 2024. Let's dive into the details of this remarkable restoration.
Context: The Challenge at Hand
The situation Dan faced was a failed shut-off solenoid on a washing machine, resulting in a significant liquid escape. The damage was categorised as Cat 1 at the source, meaning the water was initially clean. However, the spread of water across the floors and walls mean that the base plates were wet, and the moisture had permeated into the hallway and cupboards.
The customer, concerned about the potential damage, had already ripped out the carpet in Bedroom 1, but requested no further carpet removal in other affected areas. This constraint added a layer of complexity to the restoration process.
Equipment and Techniques: The Tools of the Trade
Dan employed a range of specialised equipment to tackle the restoration efficiently:
Fan: A fan blowing into the Boost Bar was used to allow heated air to travel into the 3 Port and the skirting mats, maximising the efficiency of the drying process.
Drymatic Boost Bar: Used to enhance the drying process, the Boost Bar helped manage the ambient air temperature and vapour differentiation.
Drymatic 3 Port: This versatile drying system was pivotal in targeting specific areas and ensuring thorough drying.
Drymatic Skirting Mats: These mats provided consistent drying, ensuring even distribution of air and preventing hot spots and cool spots. Using skirting mats which are narrower in size prevented walkways from being blocked and allowed the customer to still use their hallway. The skirting mats also fit easily into the bottom of the linen cupboard and bedroom wardrobe.
Air Cleaner: Though the water was initially clean, it is fair to say that it became mildly contaminated upon contact with the floors and base plates. The air cleaner ensured the environment remained safe.
The goal was to increase the temperature and raise the surface temperature to create a vapour differential, accelerating the drying process without causing secondary damage. Dan’s meticulous temperature control was crucial, especially given the ambient air temperature hovered around 30 degrees Celsius.
Overcoming Challenges: Navigating Complexities with Expertise
Every restoration job has its hurdles, and this one was no different. One of the primary challenges was managing the heat to avoid secondary damage while ensuring effective drying.
The affected bedroom meant that family members staying with the customer were temporarily displaced. Despite this inconvenience, Dan maintained clear and empathetic communication with the customer throughout the process. His reassurance and professionalism helped alleviate their concerns, particularly regarding the heat generated during the drying process.
Innovation and Creativity: Thinking Outside the Box
Dan’s innovative approach was evident in his use of mats in the linen closet and bedroom wardrobe for target drying. This strategy ensured that even hard-to-reach areas were effectively dried, showcasing his attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
Moreover, Dan had to navigate the specifications set by the builder and insurance company, ensuring that the job was completed within those boundaries while still achieving optimal results. His ability to think creatively and adapt to the constraints set him apart as a true professional in the field.
Customer Satisfaction: Communication and Care
Throughout the restoration process, Dan maintained open lines of communication with the customer, who remained in the house with their small children. He took the time to explain each step of the process, addressing their concerns and ensuring they felt comfortable with the ongoing work.
One notable aspect of Dan’s customer service was his proactive approach to managing the heat concerns. By carefully monitoring and adjusting the temperature, he ensured the restoration was effective without creating discomfort for the family.
Dan Haynes' work on the failed shut-off solenoid incident exemplifies the dedication, expertise, and innovative thinking required in the restoration industry. His use of advanced equipment, meticulous attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction have rightly earned him the Video Job of the Month accolade.
Dan’s success in this project not only highlights his technical skills but also his ability to manage complex situations with empathy and professionalism. As we celebrate his achievement, we are reminded of the critical role restoration professionals play in helping families recover from unexpected damages, ensuring their homes are safe, comfortable, and restored to their former glory.
John McDonald - Fix-It Industries
Photo of the month - May 2024
For May’s Photo of the Month, we shine the spotlight on John McDonald from Fix It Industries, whose exceptional work on a simple straightforward restoration project that was not without some challenges.
The job involved a property where windows were left open, leading to significant water intrusion that affected one of the rooms. The initial assessment revealed a tight crawl space underneath the affected area, which added a layer of complexity to the restoration. Despite the straightforward nature of the damage, the circumstances surrounding the job presented several obstacles that John had to navigate.
Equipment and Techniques
John utilised a range of specialised equipment to tackle the water damage efficiently:
Fan: A crucial piece of equipment used to circulate air and accelerate the drying process.
Drymatic Boost Bar: This tool was instrumental in increasing the airflow and ensuring thorough drying of the affected areas.
Drymatic Mats: Used in conjunction with the Drymatic Boost Bar, these mats helped provide consistent drying and prevent uneven moisture distribution.
Dehumidifier (LGR): The Low Grain Refrigerant (LGR) dehumidifier was essential in removing excess moisture from the air, aiding in the overall drying process.
John’s approach was systematic and methodical, focusing on drying out the affected room efficiently. The equipment was strategically placed to maximise effectiveness, and John ensured that all tools were operating at optimal levels.
One of the main challenges John faced was the ongoing work by other trades at the property. This external factor significantly slowed the drying process, as other tradespeople kept unplugging the drying equipment. This disruption meant that the drying process, which should have been straightforward, extended over the course of a week.
A handy tip from this job: John monitored the usage hours on the Boost Bar to determine whether equipment was being turned off unexpectedly. This simple yet effective monitoring method provided valuable insights into the equipment's operation and helped determine what was happening on site after his attendances.
John's adaptability and resourcefulness were evident as he navigated these challenges. His ability to troubleshoot and adjust to the evolving situation ensured that the drying process remained on track, despite the setbacks caused by other trades. Congratulations, John, on earning the Job of the Month title for May! Your outstanding work and dedication are truly commendable.
CONGRATULATIONS to Dan & John FOR Winning the May 2024 Monthly Competition!
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