Not All Water Is Alike: The Three Types of Water You Should Know
Homeowners in Houston face water damage from a variety
of fronts. Whether it occurs slowly from a leaky water source or suddenly
in a hurricane, water damage is serious and can be a major contributor to
property loss. The "water" in water damage is classified into one of 3
categories:
Category 1 Water - Essentially "clean water" or
water that does not pose a substantial threat to humans. For example if a tub or
sink overflows in the home or a malfunctions of the water supply lines to
appliances such as dishwashers or washing machines.
Category 2 Water - Consider this "dirty water" or "grey
water" irrespective of whether or not it looks dirty. In other words,
water that contains a significant degree of chemical, biological, or physical
contaminants. This water carries micro organisms or the food that micro
organisms feed upon. This type of water may induce sickness or discomfort when
humans are exposed to it or consume it. Toilet bowls with urine (without feces),
failed sump pump, seepage from hydrostatic failure and the discharge from
appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines are all examples of this
type of water. It is important to note that Category 2 Water that is not removed
from a structure within 48-72 hours can be reclassified as Category 3 Water.
Category 3 Water - This is commonly known as "black water"
and you can tell by how that sounds that this is grossly unsanitary. Typically
the unsanitary agents carried in black water include harmful bacteria and fungi
which have the potential to cause severe discomfort or sickness. This is
contaminated water that affects the indoor environment including water from
sewage, seawater, flood water from rivers, streams, ground surface water or
standing water. Toilet back flows that originates from beyond the toilet trap is
considered Category 3 Water regardless of the color.
Different removal methods are employed depending on the category of water
causing the damage. It is recommended that water damage restoration be performed
by experts and that homeowners not try to take matters into their own hands if
they want to sleep at night.