American Drying Institute History

“There’s always a faster way to dry!”


In December 1998, Chuck Dewald, Jr. opened the first “Chuck Dewald Structure Drying School”. The school was a direct result of Chuck’s inquisitive nature and understanding of various drying methods. As a restorer, he discovered that a great deal of commonly held beliefs did not hold true as conditions in the field varied from the norm.

Although industry workers were trained in the same basic knowledge of drying, companies throughout the country were drying structures in many different ways. As a solution, Chuck assembled the most effective techniques of drying into an efficient system: The Vortex Drying System.

Recognized by industry leaders for his enormous contributions, Chuck has spoken at conferences hosted by the ISCT, ASCR, PLRB and DRC. Chuck also worked with the IICRC to develop the ASD (Applied Structural Drying) certification.

Not yet totally retired, Chuck still attends industry trade shows all over the country. In January 2006, Chuck sold the school to his son, Chuck Dewald III and employee Jerry Blaylock. The present owners and staff uphold the same belief proclaimed by Chuck.

 “There’s always a faster way to dry!”

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