Homes and buildings can experience minor inconveniences that can lead to water damage, such as leaks, broken appliances, sewage backups, and sink overflows. If left unattended, water damage can cause mold to develop and can even cause the degradation of wood building materials. This means that water damage must be attended to as soon as possible.
However, water comes in different classes and categories. Some may inflict minor damage, while others can cause massive destruction. Some may require a simple cleanup, while others may need thorough cleaning and disinfection. A regular home or business owner might not be aware of these facts. ServiceMaster discusses each type and class below.
What Causes Water Damage?
- Broken or leaking pipes
- Water overflows
- Faulty household appliances
- Clogged gutters
- Sewage backups
- Flooding
Types/Categories of Water
Water damage is classified into three categories based on contamination levels and potential risks. The IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification) defines these categories in the context of water damage restoration:
- Category 1 – clean water, or water that is both safe and non-hazardous to humans. This type of water may be a result of malfunctioning appliances or sink overflows.
- Category 2 – gray water. This signifies that the water is contaminated and, if ingested, could cause disease. This water is densely populated with bacteria. Toilets that have failed, sump pumps that have failed, and seepage all have the potential to create Category 2 water.
- Category 3 – black water. This water is unsanitary due to the presence of germs and other pathogenic microbes. Black water damage can occur as a result of sewage backups or contaminated standing water.
Additional Information
Types of Water Losses by Category
Different materials may require specialized drying methods, especially in cases of large water volumes, even in Category 1 or 2 situations.
Specialty Drying Situations
Certain materials like plaster, brick, or concrete may need special drying methods, particularly when exposed to a substantial amount of water.
Homeowners Insurance Coverage
Most homeowners’ insurance covers sudden and accidental water damage, such as that caused by rain, snow, or frozen pipes. However, coverage may exclude certain types of water damage like seepage or faulty plumbing.
Category Deterioration
Category 1 water damage can degrade into Category 2 or 3 if left untreated, especially when microorganisms like mold are introduced or if water is left in materials for an extended period.
Classes of Water Damage
Water damage restoration specialists also need to determine the class of water damage to be able to find the most suitable water damage repair option.
Class 1
Class 1 is the safest form of water. In this type of damage, materials absorb a tiny amount of water. This would require simple water damage restoration.
Class 2
Class 2 may cause harm to carpets and upholstery because of its quick evaporation rate. Water damage restoration is more difficult in this case.
Class 3
Class 3 is the quickest to evaporate. Water may have been absorbed into the walls and furniture in this circumstance due to malfunctioning sprinklers or other above-ground sources.
Class 4
Class 4 water damage requires the employment of sophisticated water repair and removal techniques. This type of damage is most damaging to wood flooring, plaster, and concrete.
Even with the best precautions, preventing all types of water damage in the home can be challenging. If damage occurs as a result of a plumbing leak or a water overflow, contact ServiceMaster Roswell immediately to restore your home or building to normal. Our professionals will assess the extent of the damage and develop a customized, comprehensive restoration plan to get your property back in working order as quickly as possible.
Make an Appointment With One of Our Water Damage Restoration Professionals
Water damage? ServiceMaster Roswell is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at (770) 200-5111 for residential or commercial water remediation services in Roswell, Georgia, and the surrounding areas. You can also connect with us online to schedule an appointment.
- Locally owned and operated with national resources
- Over 30 years of experience
- Licensed, certified, and fully bonded technicians
We employ cutting-edge technology and techniques to detect the presence of moisture in your home and then eliminate it using state-of-the-art equipment. Don’t know what to do next? We do.® Contact us today.
