What are the 3 Categories of Water Damage?
We certainly all know that there can be different severities of water damage, from a small leak to a flooded home. However, what some may not realize is that water damage is actually categorized based on the origin of the water and its level of contamination. These categories are important, because they give insight into potential health threats the water could pose and the steps needed to ensure the damaged property is fully cleaned and restored.
Category 1: Clean Water Damage
Clean water is defined as originating from a source that does not pose harm to humans and that is free of sewage or known toxins. Unsurprisingly, this is the least serious of the three types and the easiest to clean. Wet materials may even be able to be saved by drying. An example of clean water would be some coming from a water intake for a washer or dishwasher.
Category 2: Gray Water Damage
Gray water does contain levels of contamination which has the potential to cause discomfort or sickness if consumed. It may come from the water outtake of a washer, dishwasher, or toilet. Unlike clean water, items damaged by gray water cannot simply be dried. In order to be safe, everything must be removed and thoroughly decontaminated.
Category 3: Black Water Damage
The most dangerous form of water damage is black water. This occurs when the water is grossly contaminated and certain to cause discomfort or sickness if consumed. Examples of black water include sewage and flood water. When a structure is impacted by black water, it is necessary to remove most materials, reconstruct, and thoroughly disinfect before it can once again be considered inhabitable.
Cleaning and Restoration After Water Damage
No matter which category of water damage you experience, you will need the help of restoration experts to restore your home or business to its pre-loss state. Our team of water mitigation and restoration experts will take all appropriate steps to ensure your health and safety are protected from potentially dangerous levels of contamination. Meanwhile, we also work to get you back onto your property as quickly as possible – staying true to our mission to ensure continuity of lives and businesses. Contact Guarantee Restoration today to get started.
