Categories Of Water In Water Disasters

When your home in Troy experiences any type of water damage, the situation is always devastating and overwhelming. Whether the water is from a sewer backup, malfunctioning appliance, or leaking pipes, each type of water damage is different. Based on the category of the water present, we at Maxwell Building Services know there are different steps that need to be taken to successfully clean up and restore the damage.

3 Categories of Water

Category 1: Clean Water

Category 1 Water is water that comes from a clean source. Examples are water from a leaky faucet or broken water supply line. Water damage restoration of this type of water is fairly simple. First, water must be extracted and dried completely. Damaged materials can then be repaired or replaced. If Category 1 Water is not remediated quickly and correctly, it can turn into Category 2 Water.

Category 2: Gray Water

Category 2 Water is water that may contain bacteria and viruses. Common sources of gray water include dishwasher overflow, washing machine overflow, and toilet overflow without feces.  This type of water can cause illness upon contact and needs to be handled professionally and with safety precautions. First, all wet areas must be located and the water extracted. Removal and disposal of damaged items must be done before drying begins. Not only is adequate drying needed, but thorough disinfecting must also be performed.  If left untreated for too long, Category 2 Water can degrade very quickly to Category 3 Water.

Category 3: Black Water

Like the name entails, black water is grossly contaminated water. Blackwater comes from flooding streams, canals or rivers, the sewer line, the toilet bowl with feces, and long-standing water that has begun to grow microbes.  All contact with black water should be avoided because this type of water can cause serious illness and even death if ingested. Blackwater must first be extracted, and then every surface affected is steam washed. Carpet pads and other necessary structural materials are then discarded so that the floor can be steam cleaned. A disinfectant is then applied before drying equipment is brought in. Air cleaners are also used in black Water Damage Cleanup Troy. This type of water requires professional clean-up with the use of specialized equipment to safely remove contaminants.

With the proper training and equipment, restoration crews will determine the water category and proceed with an appropriate plan of action. While you are waiting for the restoration team to arrive, there are steps you can take to keep you safe from contaminated water.

Keep children and pets away from the affected area

Keep the area contained as best as possible

Turn off all electrical power to the affected area.

Turn off the water supply to the area.

DO NOT use the HVAC unit to ventilate the area because that can spread microbes through the air. If possible, open windows in the affected area to get airflow.

Avoid entering the area

Be sure to use personal protective equipment such as facemasks, rubber gloves and boots, and impervious coveralls if you have to go into the area

If your home has been affected by any kind of water damage, Maxwell Building Services in Troy, Michigan is available 24/7 to assess the extent of the damage, conduct Water Damage Cleanup Warren and structural drying, make the necessary damage repairs and restore your home to its pre-loss condition.