Flood Cleaning And Categories Of Flood Damage
When faced with the unpleasant reality of flood damage to
your home, it is important to begin the flood cleaning and water restoration
process as soon as possible. Failure to
do so can only result in more problems for you later on, from the weakening of your
home’s foundation to the growth of mold and the toxins it brings along with it. You need to be proactive in flood cleaning as
soon as opportunity presents itself.
Knowing the source of the flood water can be invaluable
information for the flood cleaning process. You not only know whether
or not you can successfully shut it off, but also what kind of water you may be
dealing with. Water is broken down into
three categories:
Category 1 Water
– also known as Clean Water, this refers to water that is uncontaminated at the
source and poses no threat if consumed by humans or animals. Clean Water is normally the result of broken
water lines, or overflowing sinks or bathtubs.
Category 2 Water
– also known as Grey Water, this is water that may have some degree of
contaminants at the source, and may cause some discomfort or illness if
consumed by humans or animals.
Dishwasher or washing machine runoff, or toilet water with urine present
would be examples of Grey Water.
Category 3 Water
– known quite appropriately as Black Water, this is water that is highly
contaminated at the source and may cause extreme discomfort or serious illness
if consumed by humans or animals. Black
Water is universally identified with sewage, but may also refer to sea water,
water from rising rivers and streams, as well as standing or stagnant water.
Keep in mind that Category 1 Water may be reclassified as
Category 2 if left untreated for longer than 72 hours, and Category 2 Water may
be reclassified as Category 3 if left untreated for longer than 48 hours.
In most cases of Category 2 or 3, and in any case involving
a spill of considerable size, it is recommended to contact a water damage
restoration professional. Remember that
water damage repair on this level is beyond the abilities of most homeowners to
handle effectively. Since it is
imperative that it be done right the first time, calling someone with the
experience and tools necessary to do the job right becomes a priority.
Your local, IICRC certified water damage restoration company
is available 24/7 to service all of your flood cleaning and water damage repair
needs. They can have a qualified
technician to your home within the hour to assess the situation and begin flood
cleaning procedures. They are licensed,
bonded, and insured, and can even work with your insurance provider and claims
adjuster to make sure the process flows smoothly and everything is covered. 
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