What are the different types of water damage?
Established by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), the following are recognized industry standards used to classify the type of water involved in a water damage incident:
Category 1 – This water damage is caused by “clean” water or water from a sanitary source such as a ruptured water supply line. This type of water damage does not pose potential health threats and generally does not require decontamination procedures if water damage professionals promptly treat the damage.
Category 2 – This water damage is caused by “gray” water, which originates from sources such as an overflowing appliance like a washing machine or bathroom fixture. This water is considered contaminated by illness-causing microorganisms.
Category 3 – The most toxic type of water damage, this water damage involves raw sewage backup as well as influx from outdoor flooding. Water damage restorations efforts will require extensive decontamination, with teams donning protective gear. Residents may need to be evacuated while this process is ongoing.
Water damage can also be classified according to its severity:
Class 1 means the volume of water is small and limited to only one room.
Class 2 refers to a larger volume of water in a single room that has potentially damaged the drywall and/or flooring.
Class 3 indicates severe water damage affecting building materials, the electrical system, furniture, and other possessions. Water has spread beneath walls and has penetrated the structure of the house.
Class 4 means water has penetrated porous materials like brick, stone, and concrete. This water damage severity requires specialized drying methods over an extended time frame.
Time is of the essence when dealing with water damage.
Water damage rapidly expands within 48 hours. Absorbent materials like drywall and carpeting become saturated and retain water.
At 48 hours, active mold growth begins, and airborne spores spread out, contaminating other areas of your home. Wood floors and structural beams begin to warp while paint and wallpaper peel and blister.
After a week, you’ll observe visible mold infestation in several areas. Major structural components may be permanently compromised, and the house may be unsafe to enter except by properly equipped professionals.
Nashville residents trust Rytech’s IICRC-certified technicians for their water damage restoration requirements. 24-hour emergency services are available. Get in touch today for a no-commitment consultation.
Rytech Nashville has become a leader in the water damage restoration and mold remediation industry. The company has reached exponential growth from its humble beginnings in one location and currently provides service to 49 major markets across 25 states. Call (615) 751-8445 for more information.