Types of Water Damage That Could Affect Your Property in Tuscaloosa

When you think of water damage, you likely imagine what everyone else does – a slow water leak dripping from the ceiling or down the walls. But in reality, there are different types of water damage that go unseen. Your eyes were not built to dissect the contaminants and bacteria in standing water, but they’re there. These contaminants, found in both gray water damage and black water damage, can easily cause health concerns, including infections and waterborne disease. The first step in tackling such water damage is better understanding it. Then, you can schedule professional water damage restoration to rid your home of the problem.

There are three key types of water damage, broken down into categories, that affect most properties. These include clean water damage, gray water damage, and black water damage. They are, respectively, Category 1, 2, and 3. The higher the tier, the worse the damage and contamination.

• Clean Water – Category 1 water damage, or clean water damage, is uncontaminated and poses no serious health risk to people or pets when consumed or exposed to standing water. Typically, clean water damage stems from an overflowing sink, freshwater burst pipe, and even rainwater. Like most types of water damage, clean water damage can escalate if left unattended. You have less than 48 hours to address the problem before it additional issues arise.
• Gray Water – Category 2 water damage, or gray water damage, is slightly contaminated and often leads to minor health concerns, such as discomfort or illness, when ingested or when bare skin is exposed to the standing water. Typically, gray water damage stems from a bathtub or shower overflow, or a leaking appliance like a washing machine or dishwasher. The level of contamination found in gray water damage is not life threatening, but it can still be considered dangerous.
• Black Water – Lastly, category 3 water damage, or black water damage, is highly contaminated due to its source, which may include groundwater flooding and sewage backups. Black water damage is extremely unsanitary, with human feces, fungi, bacteria, viruses, and parasites littered throughout. If you or a pet were to ingest or come in contact with black water, the risk of waterborne disease and infection are immense. You should never handle black water damage cleanup; leave it to the experts.

Again, it’s important to note that clean water damage can easily become gray water damage if left untreated for too long. You’re on the clock. In most cases, you have under 48 hours to address your water damage concerns before mold begins to grow and contamination increases. Timing is key.

You can find a local, IICRC-certified water damage restoration company near you to handle any type of water damage. Look to Restoration 1 of Tuscaloosafor burst pipes, flood damage, and leaking appliances. You can schedule prompt service by calling 205-632-7222!