A Guide to the Different Types of Water Damage
When it comes to water damage, there are several different categories you can fall into. While all water damage poses some risk to your home, not all water damage is dangerous. Here is a quick guide to the types of water damage that you may be faced with. Once you understand what category your water damage falls into, you can better protect your home and yourself. Here are some of the most common types of water damage. They all pose different types of risks for your health.
Categories of water damage
There are different types of water damage, each with their own unique set of problems. Fortunately, water damage companies are trained to deal with them all. Listed below are the different types of water damage, and how they affect your property. Clean water can cause minimal damage and discomfort, and grey water contains microorganisms that may cause health issues. This type of water damage can also result from a broken toilet, broken sump pump, or seepage.
Most people can’t differentiate between the different categories of water damage. For the purposes of insurance claims, water damage is grouped into three broad categories. One category involves flooding, while another is contained to a bathroom. The Institute for Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) defines category one water damage as “significant” damage, while category three refers to a smaller area. Once you have a basic understanding of the different types of water damage, you can decide on a water damage restoration company.
What is category 3 water damage?
If you have suffered water damage in your home, you have probably heard of Category 3 water damage. This type of water damage is a much higher level of contamination than the previous categories. Not only can it cause extensive damage to your home, but it also creates a conducive environment for the growth of mold. Mold grows on porous materials, such as walls and ceilings, and can cause respiratory and health problems for you and your family.
The IICRC S500 clearly defines Category 1 and 2 water damages, and states that Category 3 includes hurricane-driven rain. To qualify as Category 3, water must be grossly contaminated with pathogenic or toxigenic agents that are highly toxic to humans. Until recently, this type of water damage was virtually unnoticed by insurance companies and regulators. Today, however, special operations are being conducted inside insurance companies to prevent this kind of damage.
Category 1 water damage
Regardless of the damage caused by flooding or other types of water damages, the first step is to assess the situation. While a Category 1 incident is relatively clean, if left untreated, it could quickly deteriorate into a Category 2 or Category 3 incident. This is because water in this category may contain bacteria or other toxins that can harm humans and pets. To avoid this, it is best to have the water disposed of as quickly as possible.
Typically, the best way to contain the floodwaters is to use buckets or waterproof tape to contain the water. The longer the water remains untreated, the higher the risk for mold. Water damage that hasn’t been addressed can quickly change categories. Acting quickly is essential to prevent further damage. And if you’re facing a category 1 water damage situation, it’s especially important to contact a professional immediately.