Understanding Water Classifications

8/5/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding due to leaking pipes.

Dealing with a flood, whether caused by internal or external forces, is not easy for any homeowner, which is why calling a water restoration company in Pocatello, ID, is almost always advised. The primary reason for calling an expert is to determine the category of the water and the class of the damage. Clean water or category one is fine for a little DIY repair, but Category three or black water should be handled by a professional.

3 Facts You Need To Know About Water Classification

1. Water Categories

There are three water categories: clean, grey and black. Clean water or category one usually stems from a water supply line leak or break. With category one floods, there is little to worry about. Category two or grey water is when clean water has been standing or has seeped through building materials, allowing the water to become contaminated with bacteria and chemicals. Black water is the worst level of contamination and usually includes sewage or waste water, which may require professional sewage cleanup. You should always call a professional to handle category 3 water damage.

2. Water Classes

As with categories, the higher the classification, the greater the problem you are dealing with. For example, class one water damage refers to minimal flooding and recent damage, meaning that minimum items are affected, and the restoration process is often quick. Class four damage means that the water has had time to soak into porous materials and affect structural elements of the home.

3. Profesional Assistance

Regardless of the level of water damage or loss, calling a professional is almost always advisable, especially when water is higher than an inch deep and has been sitting for a long time. If the damage occurred while you were away, make sure to contact a specialist because there is no way of knowing exactly how long the water was left standing.

No homeowner wants to experience a flood of black water. However, if you must deal with such a disaster, contact a water mitigation company for help.