Water damage poses a significant threat to homes and businesses alike, causing costly repairs and potential health hazards. It's essential to understand the various causes and types of water damage to effectively prevent, identify, and address it.
Clean water, also known as Category 1 water, comes from sanitary sources such as broken water pipes or overflowing fixtures. It poses minimal health risks and can often be cleaned and repaired with proper attention.
Gray water, or Category 2 water, contains contaminants from sources like dishwashers or washing machines. It carries bacteria and microorganisms and requires thorough cleaning and disinfection to prevent health issues.
Black water, or Category 3 water, originates from heavily contaminated sources such as sewage backups or floodwater. It contains harmful pathogens and must be professionally removed and disinfected to safeguard occupants.
| Category | Source | Health Risk | Clean-up |
|---|---|---|---|
| Category 1 (Clean Water) | Broken pipes, overflowing fixtures | Minimal | Cleaning and drying |
| Category 2 (Gray Water) | Dishwashers, washing machines | Moderate | Deep cleaning and disinfection |
| Category 3 (Black Water) | Sewage backups, floodwater | Severe | Professional removal and disinfection |