Categorizing Water Damage in Your Home

12/19/2017 (Permalink)

Many of the damages we encounter are caused by broken water pipes or faulty appliances. With these types of water damages, it is important to know the source of the water to properly clean it up.

Water damages are categorized into three major types of water. -- clean water, gray water, and black water. The categories are based on where the water came from and how dangerous it is to human health.

Category One- Clean Water

Clean water is treated water that does not contain waste products. Burst pipes, overflowing sinks, and defective appliances are sources of clean water. This type of water has not been used and resents few health risks for humans during removal. Natural disasters can damage roofs severely and open up buildings to rain and snow, but if the water flows through soil it is no longer considered to be clean.

Category Two- Gray Water

Water that has been used and carries waste products, but does not contain human waste is considered to be grey water. An overflowing washing machine that dumps wash water on the floor is gray. A toilet overflow with no solid matter is gray. Generally, gray water does not present the hazard of spreading diseases, but it can cause sickness for those exposed through touching, drinking, or other contact.

Category 3- Black Water

Black water is considered to be unsanitary water. Floodwaters are considered to be black water. Floods cause severe damage to the structures and contents. Floodwaters carry silt and debris of every type. They can contain disease-causing organisms as well as possible contaminants. Carpets and other porous materials must be replaced when contaminated with black water.

It is also important to note that black water may not look black in color and grey water may not look gray in color. The categorization of water depends on the source of water and what’s in it, not the actual color.

If you ever experience water damage in your home, do not hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Glendora/San Dimas. We have highly trained technicians who have all the skills needed to take care of your water damage and make your home “Like it never even happened.”