All construction materials inside the structure absorb moisture, including wallboard, fireproofing, lumber, block, and concrete. Unless that moisture is reduced to acceptable tolerances, the condition can delay the construction timetable, cause performance failure of some material, or lead to the formation of mold.
Surfaces often include freshly sprayed fireproofing, joint compound, concrete slabs, floor leveling products, concrete block walls, and stored building materials. Water-laden fireproofing and joint compounds dry slowly inside closed areas when applied. Often, the humidity that results can encourage mold contamination. Finished flooring products such as vinyl composite tile and fiber-backed carpet are applied with adhesives extremely sensitive to moisture. Without proper drying, large amounts of water can be trapped in concrete, preventing the installation of flooring.