Flood Damage: Understanding the 3 Categories of Water
Not all floods are the same. Water carries hidden dangers that may not be immediately apparent during a flood event. Knowing the three categories of water is essential for accurately assessing the situation after flood damage. Identifying the category of water damage helps in determining the appropriate drying techniques and which items can be restored. Here’s a quick guide to help you establish what category of flood damage is affecting your home.
Category 1: Clean Water
This is the least damaging category of water. While clean water can cause damage if not properly managed, it typically comes from sources that pose minimal risk to health, such as:
– Burst pipes
– Appliance malfunctions
– Sink or tub overflows
– Roof leaks
– Melting snow or rainwater
– Broken toilet tanks
If not dried correctly, clean water can lead to secondary issues like mold and mildew growth, which can necessitate mold damage restoration.
Category 2: Gray Water
Gray water is contaminated to some degree and can cause discomfort or illness if ingested. Sources of gray water include:
– Toilets (not containing solid waste)
– Washing machines
– Dishwashers
– Sump-pump failures
– Broken aquariums
It’s crucial to remove and properly dispose of affected carpet pads as soon as possible. If left untreated, Category 2 water can escalate to Category 3 within 48 hours.
Category 3: Black Water
Black water is the most hazardous type of water damage. It may contain toxic materials such as bacteria, chemicals, and pesticides, posing serious health risks. Sources of black water include:
– Sewage backups
– Toilet overflow (with solid waste)
– Rising water from rivers or streams
– Ground surface water
Get Professional Help
We recommend that all flood damage, especially Category 3 water, be handled by a flood damage restoration specialist. If you experience flood damage in San Diego, reaching out to a company like Certified Restoration is essential. We have the right equipment and expertise for safe and thorough restoration.
Due to the risk of water-borne bacteria, Category 1 clean water can quickly transition to Category 2 gray water, and then to Category 3 black water if not addressed promptly.
Certified Restoration is available 24/7 for all your flood damage and mold remediation needs in San Diego. If you have questions or require immediate assistance, don’t hesitate to call us! We’re here to help.
“Disclaimer: This article is for general information ONLY and is not intended to be legal, medical, or scientific advice. The proper approach to each project must be determined on a case-by-case basis. Certified Restoration always recommends that you call a certified restoration professional, especially when there are children, elderly, or individuals with health conditions residing in the property. “
