Categories Of Water Damage

Did you know that there are different levels of water categories that you might have to deal with when you have to handle a water damage cleanup situation in Idaho Falls? In fact, there are three different water categories that you should be aware of because some are relatively safe to handle when you are the first one to arrive on a water damage scene, and others you do not want to touch with a ten-foot pole. Here is an explanation of each of the water categories and how to handle them. 

Category One

Category one water is classified as clean water. This is water from a leaky pipe, water fountain, toilet tank (not bowl), sinks and other similar sources of clean tap water. If you are the first one to come upon a leak of this kind, by all means, grab some towels and try to turn the water off at the source. You will still need professional help in many cases, but the more water you are able to soak up, the less likely it is that the damage will spread too far or be too extensive. 

You can come into contact with this water without any risk to your health, but you should remember that if it is not dried thoroughly, mold can begin to develop even in areas that you cannot see like within the walls or under your flooring. It is still important to have Restore Rite in Idaho Falls come out and assess the damage. 

Category Two

This category is also known as gray water and it contains a level of biological or chemical contaminants that can cause illness or discomfort if ingested or it comes in contact with the skin. This kind of water isn’t overly disgusting, but it isn’t clean. This kind of water might come from a leaking shower, washing machine, dishwasher, or even a toilet bowl overflowing with urine (but not feces). You definitely wouldn’t bottle this water at the source, but as long as you avoid it, it shouldn’t give you much of a problem. You will want a professional to deal with this kind of a mess, especially if it has seeped into your walls or flooring. It is important to make sure that dirty water of any kind is thoroughly cleaned out. 

Category Three

This category poses the most risk to your health and is also known as Blackwater. Blackwater has a high amount of biological or chemical contaminants and can be very hazardous to your health if it comes in contact with your skin or is ingested. This category is many times associated with sewage, but it could be flood water or any water that is coming into your home from an unknown source. If you have any blackwater in your home, call Restore Rite immediately and remove yourself from the location if possible. 

Knowing the categories of water is important, but if you ever have any kind of water damage cleanup situation, make sure to call a professional who knows how to handle all these kinds of categories safely.