NOT ALL WATER DAMAGE IS CREATED EQUAL

Water damage is something nobody wants to experience. Unfortunately, water damage is more common than most of us realize. On any given day, home water damage emergencies impact 14,000 people. Nationwide, household water damage costs up to $20 billion annually. Common problems like a burst pipe, leaky appliance, or overflowing toilet can cause sudden and costly water damage. 

Water left unattended for too long can create severe damage. It can also pose a serious health risk to people and pets. Not all water damage is the same. The type of water that caused the damage is classified into different categories and classes. Knowing what kind of water you are dealing with is extremely important for the restoration process.

Restoration Depends on the Type of Water

Specific steps must be taken to reduce damage, depending on the particular type of water damage. According to the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), which sets the standards for the cleaning industry and water restoration training, there are three types of water involved: 

Category 1: Clean Water

This type of water damage comes from sanitary sources, such as an overflowing sink or bathtub, burst water pipes, broken washing machine hoses, or vertical falling rainwater. Small clean water leaks are generally safe for homeowners to handle as the water poses no immediate risk from exposure or ingestion, but time is of the essence. Standing clean water can quickly turn into Category 2, or greywater, in under 48 hours.

Category 2: Grey Water

Grey water refers to wastewater that is not contaminated with human waste but can still make you feel ill if ingested. Grey water includes water from bathtubs, showers, washing machines, and sinks. If you experience grey water flooding, you may be able to begin the cleanup process on your own. It’s essential to remove any affected items and disinfect thoroughly if your home has been impacted by Category 2 water damage. The waste and chemicals in grey water may prove harmful. If the flooding is extensive, such as several inches of water in a basement, it’s best to hire a water restoration company to clean up and decontaminate the area. Cleanup must begin immediately since Category 2 floodwaters can progress to Category 3 in as little as 48 hours.

Category 3: Black Water

Black water is the worst classification of floodwater and can cause severe illness if ingested. Blackwater is contaminated with human waste and other pathogens or toxins. Sewer backups, flooded rivers, or stagnant water with bacterial growth are all examples of black water. When Category 3 damage occurs, contact an experienced water restoration company for assistance. Carpets, upholstery, and drywall are often unsalvageable. Some Items impacted by Category 3 water damage may be restored after undergoing significant disinfection procedures.

Some Types of Water Damage Are Preventable

Water damage is one of the most common types of residential property damage. Clogged gutters, aging plumbing, and malfunctioning appliances are common causes of residential water damage. It’s vital to deal with plumbing leaks and malfunctioning appliances quickly. Even a small leak can quickly turn into a disaster. Read this article to learn about common causes of residential water damage and maintenance tips to help keep your home leak-free.

Contact the Experts to Save Your Home and Belongings

After a flood, you may think your home and its contents are beyond hope, but many of your furnishings and other belongings can be restored. With professional restoration services, your flooded home can be cleaned up, dried out, and restored to its original condition.

Cleaning and restoration professionals are trained to handle various types of water damage safely and efficiently. Once they arrive on the scene, they will quickly assess the situation and start the restoration process. They have the equipment and training to clean up after a water disaster safely and efficiently.

Trust Your Local Cleaning and Restoration Professionals 

Call St. Louis Cleaning and Restoration at (314) 328-7793 or contact us online when you need professional cleaning or restoration services. In business since 1991, our technicians are trained professionals who can restore any disaster in your home. As a leading water damage restoration company, you can count on us to come to the rescue and save your property.

We proudly serve the greater St. Louis metropolitan area, and our emergency response teams are available 24/7 when time is of the essence. Contact us today for a free consultation and estimate.