The 3 Types of Water Damage
While water damage in your home is never a good thing, there are different types of water damage that are more dangerous than others. Water damage is sorted into 3 distinct categories based on contamination by toxins and waste. Our water damage mitigation experts at Aloha Restoration have put together this quick guide on the different types of water damage and how to properly respond to them.
Category 1: Clean Water
Clean water is the lowest category of water damage, consisting of water that is “clean” from contamination. This type of water damage can come from leaking rain or sanitary appliances, such as water pipes, faucets and other appliances.
Usually, most items damaged by clean water can be cleaned and dried with little side effects or risk. The biggest danger of clean water damage is the possibility of mold growing on exposed surfaces. Mold can begin to grow in as little as 48 hours after clean water exposure, so it is important to monitor the exposed area for mold growth.
Category 2: Grey Water
Grey water is the next category of water damage. This type consists of “dirty” water that has come into contact with some contaminants, but hasn’t come into contact with raw sewage. Sources of this type include: washing machines, dishwashers, bath/shower drains and toilets.
While grey water is not as dangerous as black water, it can still pose a hazard to the health of you and others in your home. Due to possible contaminants, it is recommended to sanitize anything that has been exposed to grey water, then dry it out.
Category 3: Black Water
Black water is the highest category of water damage. Due to the contamination of sewage and waste in the water, black water may contain pathogens and bacteria capable of making people sick. Black water has many potential sources, including: overflowing toilets, broken sewage lines and flooded rivers or ponds.
In addition to containing dangerous microorganisms, black water can also contain chemicals that can harm both you and your home. Many of the chemicals found in black water are both toxic to humans and animals, and corrosive, meaning they can damage your home if left for too long. Because of these issues, most items exposed to black water should be removed from the home instead of being sanitized.
Due to the hazards black water presents to both you and your home, immediate removal is recommended. However, DIY treatment of black water is NOT recommended. Black water damage is incredibly dangerous, and removal should be left to trusted professionals, like us at Aloha Restoration Co. Our water mitigation experts have years of experience under their belts, and will get your home back to normal in no time!
