Water Damage: Causes, Types, and Categories

What is Water Damage?

Water damage occurs when water infiltrates a structure or its contents, causing damage to building materials, furnishings, and personal belongings.

Causes of Water Damage

  • Plumbing leaks or bursts
  • Roof leaks
  • Flooding
  • Hurricane or storm surges
  • Basement seepage
  • Appliance malfunctions

Types of Water Damage

Water damage can be classified into three main categories:

Three Categories of Water Damage

  1. Category 1: Clean Water
  2. Water from a clean source, such as a broken water pipe or melted snow, poses a relatively low risk of contamination.

  3. Category 2: Gray Water
  4. Water from sources that may contain biological contaminants, such as dishwasher overflow or washing machine discharge, requires disinfection.

  5. Category 3: Black Water
  6. Water contaminated with sewage, bacteria, or hazardous substances poses a serious health risk and requires professional remediation.

Consequences of Water Damage

  • Structural damage
  • Mold growth
  • Property loss
  • Health hazards

Prevention and Mitigation

Regular maintenance, such as inspecting roofs and plumbing, can help prevent water damage. Prompt action, including water extraction and drying, can minimize damage and prevent mold growth.