The Categories and Classes of Water Damage

Water damage in the home can be stressful, but sometimes it isn't awful as it may seem. Indeed, all water damage needs restoration. But some cases are not too critical, and the repair task required isn't too complicated.

However, when a homeowner improperly deals with any water damage issues, the home's structure may suffer from a lasting impairment. As soon as you find any signs of water damage, make haste to seek help from a water damage restoration company.

Furthermore, it is essential to learn about the different categories and classes of water damage. Keep reading to gain enough knowledge about them and know how to handle a water damage problem in your home.

What are the Categories of Water Damage?

Understanding the categories of water damage may help you describe the situation clearly to the experts. This will help them recognize the cause of water loss and proceed with the best solution.

Category 1: Clean Water

• This category refers to the water damage caused by fluid coming from a sanitary source.
• Sources include broken water supply lines, a faucet, a failed water heater, or a toilet tank.
• It may begin as clean water. But, it can swiftly climb into Category 2 or 3 if not treated immediately or becomes contaminated water.

Category 2: Gray Water

• This category includes water with unsafe contaminants, which could cause discomfort or sickness when ingested.
• Grey water can come from sources like a leaking dishwasher, a washing machine overflow, a flush from a sink drain, or a toilet overflowing with urine.
• Like Category 1, this situation can quickly turn into Category 3 if not correctly dealt with.

Category 3: Black Water

• This category is the worst water damage level. It came from the grossly unsanitary fluid.
• Blackwater consists of human and animal waste, along with other toxins, pollutants, and impurities that could cause grievous illness or even death if ingested and not adequately treated.
• Sources include standing water containing microbial growth, sewer backup, wind-driven rain, flooding from rivers or streams, or toilet overflows with feces.

Know the Classes of Water Damage

The following information below will help you identify which class of water damage you are encountering in your home:

Class 1

• This class is the easiest to handle since it is the least severe of all.
• It has a slow absorption rate. Only a part of the room or area is affected, and there is minimal to no wet carpet to salvage.
• Moisture only affects materials with low permeable characteristics like concrete or plywood.
• Light repairs will possibly be necessary.

Class 2

• With a fast absorption rate, this class can affect the whole room or area containing carpets or cushions.
• Moisture has moved at least 12 inches or 1 foot up to the walls and remained in structural materials.

Class 3

• This class has the fastest absorption rate.
• The water source may have come from above or have traveled more than 24 inches up the walls.
• The entire room, including the ceilings, walls, insulation, sub-floors, and carpet, are saturated with moisture.

Class 4

• This class means that materials with low permeability like hardwood floors, plaster, and concrete are significantly saturated.
• This type of damage requires special water restoration procedures.

Seek Assistance from Water Damage Restoration Specialists

Knowing the categories and classes of water damage can help you deal with the problem properly. But, if your home suffers water damage, seek help from water damage restoration professionals immediately.

Superior Restoration specializes in water damage restoration services. Our trained professionals make use of the latest technology to help restore your home in order.

We are available in emergencies and always ready to serve you 24/7. Contact us to learn more about our services.