How To Identify the Types of Water Losses

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

There are three water categories.

Not every water damage is the same. Minor spills involving clean water can be handled by a homeowner. Black water, however, is quite dangerous and should only be touched by a trained expert. It thus helps to know the different categories and classes of water losses. This can help you decide when to call emergency cleanup professionals.

Water Categories

1. Category 1
Category 1 water is the cleanest. It does not contain any bacteria or other contaminants that could harm humans. Category 1 water losses typically involve an overflowing sink or a broken supply line.

2. Category 2
Category 2 water, or grey water, may contain some physical, chemical, or biological contaminants that can cause sickness in humans. The water could come from toilet bowls with urine, dishwashers, or washing machines.

3. Category 3
This is also known as black water. It contains fungi and bacteria that can be dangerous. The fluid typically comes from storm surges, rivers, or streams. Water in this category should only be handled by sewage cleanup experts.

Water Classes
Water losses are also classified by the extent of the damage. Class 1 losses affect a small area and occur when the water has not greatly absorbed into nearby materials. Class 2 losses, meanwhile, may spread to the walls, carpets, and cushions.
Class 3 and 4 losses are the most severe. Class 3 losses affect an entire room, including the ceilings and insulation. Class 4 losses involve low porous materials such as concrete and hardwood. They thus require special drying techniques.
Overflowing water from a sink or tub that is contained to one section of your Clear Lake, TX, house can be handled pretty easily. Unsanitary black water, however, can be harmful and tougher to remove. This is especially true if the water has spread to hardwood floors or a large area of your home. If you suffer a Category 3 or a Class 3/4 water loss, you should thus call restoration experts.