Here are the different types of water damage and how they can wreak havoc on your property.
The term ‘water damage’ is used to describe the massive amount of loss caused by water after it enters your home. The loss may be in the form of rusting of steel, rotting of wood, delaminating of materials like plywood, mold growth, temporary or permanent damage to carpeting, hardwood flooring and furniture, and so on.
The complexity of the problem can range from minor water spouts to large-scale flooding. Depending on the source of water intrusion, different types of water damage can occur, the results of which are never the same. In this guide, you’ll study the three major types of water damage and their associated impact.
Clean Water Damage
Flooding originating from sinks or tub overflows, appliance malfunctions, broken water supply lines, etc., do not pose a substantial threat to humans. This water is referred to as clean water, which doesn’t contain too many microbes. Unless the clean water is allowed to stand for long, the associated damages are limited to items exposed to it. For example, porous items, hardwood flooring, and wooden furniture will absorb water and sustain water damage.
When you don’t act quickly and allow clean water to stand on surfaces and floors, mold infestation or fungus growth can occur within 48 hours of water invasion. If not timely eliminated and dried, clean water will eventually turn into greywater, which proves harmful for humans.
Greywater Damage
Greywater damage involves unsanitary water. It contains some degree of contamination but doesn’t carry fecal matter. It originates from rain or snowfall, or internal sources, such as washing machines, showers, bathtubs, dishwashers, sinks, etc. Since ingestion and exposure to greywater can induce illness, it’s important to use protective gear when cleaning or eliminating the damage.
Also, keep children and pets away from the flooded area. Again, if you fail to get rid of greywater within 48 hours, it will turn into black water damage.
Black Water Damage
This is the most dangerous type of water damage. Black water damage is caused by water that has been contaminated with chemical or human waste, microorganisms, or sewage. It can easily cause allergies, infections, respiratory complications, and more.
Blackwater intrusion typically results from sewage backups. Since the slightest exposure can prove harmful to health, you should never attempt to remove or clean it on your own. As soon as you suspect blackwater intrusion, seek a professional water damage restoration service to address the issue. Water damage remediation experts possess the expertise and equipment to clean and disinfect the flooded area.
Moreover, blackwater damage results in the creation of airborne toxic contaminants and mold spores that won’t even be visible to you. A professional water damage restoration service conducts air purification to eliminate them.
Regardless of the type of water damage you experience, you must eliminate, clean, and disinfect the flooded area as soon as possible.
