Water Damage Types
The type of water damage and how to mitigate it depends on the category of flood water. According to the IICRC S500 Standards and Reference Guide for Water Damage Restoration, water damage is defined by one of the following three categories:
CATEGORY 1 WATER DAMAGE
Category 1 Water Damage, also known as clean water damage, is water that is uncontaminated at the source and, as such, does not pose a threat if exposed to or consumed by humans or animals. Broken water lines or overflowing tubs or sinks would be examples of clean water damage.
Examples of clean water sources may include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:
- Broken domestic water supply lines
- Tub or sink overflows with no contaminants
- Appliance malfunctions involving domestic water supply lines
- Melting ice or snow
- Falling rainwater
- Broken toilet tanks and toilet bowls that do not contain contaminants or additives
CATEGORY 2 WATER DAMAGE
Category 2 Water Damage, also known as greywater damage, is water that may contain some varying degrees of contaminants at the source and may cause discomfort or illness if exposed to or consumed by humans or animals. This is the more common type of water damage that occurs in Nebraska. Examples of greywater sources include toilet water with urine present, sump pump failures, and discharge from dishwashers or washing machines.
Examples of greywater sources may include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:
- Discharge from dishwashers or washing machines
- Overflows from toilet bowls with some urine (no feces)
- Sump pump failures
- Seepage due to hydrostatic pressure
- Chilled and condensate water
- Fire protection sprinkler water
CATEGORY 3 WATER DAMAGE
Category 3 Water Damage, also known as black water damage, refers to water that is highly contaminated at the source and may cause serious illness, or even death, if consumed by humans or animals. This is a very serious situation! This water contains grossly unsanitary agents, harmful bacteria and fungi, and is usually the result of sewage-based spills. Other sources may include seawater, rising water from rivers or streams, ground surface water, or standing water.
Keep in mind that, with time, the category of water can worsen or degrade. For instance, Category 1 Water may become Category 2 Water if left untreated long enough. Likewise, Category 2 Water should be considered Category 3 if left standing and stagnant for more than 72 hours. Water damage containing Category 2 or 3 Water is best handled by a professional in order to prevent potential health issues. Call DryHero Professionals at 402-438-2379 for assistance today!