The Importance of Water Categories in Restoration

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

Not all water damage is created the same. An overflowing sink is not the same as having a sewage leak! The cost can significantly vary depending on the category of water damage your home or commercial property has sustained.

If your home or business has recently suffered water damage or a water-related disaster, identifying the categories of water loss enables SERVPRO's restoration professionals to formulate a plan of action based on your home's specific needs.

Three Water Categories

Category 1 Water
Category 1 is from a source of water that does not pose a substantial threat to humans and classified as "clean water." This  includes broken water-supply lines, tub or sink overflows, or appliance malfunctions that involve water supply lines.

Category 2 Water
Known as "grey water," the water classified as category 2 contains a significant degree of chemical, biological, or physical contaminants and causes discomfort or sickness when consumed or exposed to.  This type carries microorganisms and nutrients of microorganisms from sources such as toilet bowls with urine (no feces), sump pump failures, seepage due to hydrostatic failure, and water discharge from dishwashers or washing machines.

Category 3 Water
Category 3 is known as "black water" and is grossly unsanitary from sewage, seawater, rising water from rivers or streams, ground surface water, or standing water. Any "grey water" that's not promptly removed from the structure and or remained stagnant may be re-classified as Category 3 Water. This black water contains unsanitary agents, harmful bacteria, and fungi, causing severe discomfort or sickness, and can t affect the indoor environment.

Contact SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort for a Water Damage Assessment

The longer water damage sits unresolved, the worse the damage will be. Getting professional help immediately after a water disaster can reduce the cost of water clean-up and drying. The experts at SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort are available 24/7 and will respond quickly to any restoration emergency. Call our office at (518) 580-1111.