Water Damage: Causes, Types, and Categories

Causes of Water Damage

Water damage can occur due to various factors, including:

• Natural disasters (e.g., hurricanes, floods, earthquakes)
• Burst pipes or appliances
• Leaking roofs or windows
• Condensation
• Human errors (e.g., overflowing bathtubs or sinks)

Types of Water Damage

Water damage can be classified into three types based on the severity and source of the water:

• Category 1: Clean Water
This type results from exposure to clean water sources, such as broken pipes or appliance leaks. It is generally the least severe type of damage and can be cleaned and dried relatively easily.
• Category 2: Gray Water
This type originates from sources that contain contaminants, such as dishwashers, washing machines, or sewage backups. It can pose health risks and requires thorough cleaning and disinfection.
• Category 3: Black Water
This type comes from highly contaminated sources, such as sewage, floodwater, or standing water that has been contaminated by bacteria or microorganisms. It carries significant health risks and requires professional remediation and restoration efforts.