How To Tell If Water Damage Is Category 3

12/27/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage in Kimmswick, MO.

The most severe type of water damage is Category Three. Flood water and water from a toilet overflow are both in this category. Consider the following factors to determine whether Category Three water damage is present in a commercial structure.

What Is the Source?

Three categories are used to classify water damage. These include:

• Category One water, which is clean and treated
  
• Category Two water, which may contain chemicals or microbes
  
• Category Three water, which may contain contaminants and solid waste
  
  

Category One water damage usually results from a supply line break. Category Two water, also referred to as gray water, may come from an appliance leak or a backed-up shower. Category Three water, also known as black water, is typically flood water or originates from a sewer backup.

How Long Has Water Been Standing?

The condition of water left standing will deteriorate after about 48 hours, regardless of the original source. This may be caused by contact with:

• Building materials
  
• Contaminants
  
• Contents
  
  

A building owner or facility manager should quickly eliminate standing water and promote drying. This can limit primary damage and prevent secondary damage, such as mold growth.

Which Cleaning Method Is Recommended?

If a building has Category Three water damage, several stages of cleaning will be necessary. These may include:

• Removing water
  
• Tearing out porous building materials
  
• Cleaning and disinfecting the area
  
• Drying the area
  
  

Porous materials such as drywall and contents such as carpet will probably not be able to be thoroughly disinfected. These materials and contents should be torn out and replaced. Restoration should only proceed after an area has completely dried. Otherwise, the risk of mold growth may persist.

Category Three flood water or water from a toilet overflow can cause extensive damage at a commercial building in Kimmswick, MO. An owner may want to rely on the expertise of water damage restoration professionals.