Understanding The Three Water Types

Understanding The Three Water Types

Water damage cleanup is a laborious task. Depending on the type of water present, the cleanup
process may follow a couple different protocols. The end goal is always the same though;
remove and dry all the water completely, and restore your Derby home to its pre-loss
condition. Because each type of water requires different precautions and techniques, it is
important to let a professional experienced restoration company handle the cleanup process. In
order to better understand how water damage cleanup works, you must first know what the
different types of water are and the threats they entail.

We at PCS/PRS Southern would like to introduce three categories of water, each coming from a
different source and posing its own potential threats.

Category 1 Water: Clean Water

Category 1 Water comes from a clean source, such as a leaky faucet or broken supply line. This
type of water is called ‘clean water’ because it comes from a clean source and is unlikely to
harbor contaminants. Water damage cleanup from this type of water follows the general
cleanup steps. First, water must be extracted and dried completely. Damaged materials can
then be repaired or replaced. If Category 1 Water is not cleaned up quickly and dried
completely, it can degrade into Category 2 Water.

Category 2 Water: Gray Water

Category 2 Water is called ‘gray water’ because it is contaminated water that may contain
viruses, bacteria, and other harmful contaminants. Sources of water damage from gray water
are dishwashers, washing machines, and toilets without feces. This type of water poses threats
to health, and if you come in contact with gray water it can cause illness. The cleanup process
for gray water requires personal protective equipment before entering the area. Water must
first be safely extracted from the area. Then thorough disinfecting is required to ensure all
harmful contaminants are removed. All water and moisture must be completely dried before
repairs can take place. Items such as furniture or other materials that quickly absorb water will
need to be deep cleaned, and some even thrown away. If Category 2 Water is not handled
promptly and effectively, it will progressively worsen into Category 3 Water.

Category 3 Water: Black Water

Category 3 Water is called ‘black water’ because it is grossly contaminated water. Black water
sources include flooding streams, canals, and rivers, water from the sewer line, and water from
the toilet containing feces. This type of water can cause serious illness and even death if
ingested. All contact with black water should be avoided because of the potential health
hazards it poses. This type of water cleanup requires professional equipment and techniques to
ensure adequate cleaning of surfaces and removal of contaminants. Personal protective
equipment and safe extraction are extremely important when removing black water. Extensive
disinfecting is required, and many damaged items will have to be thrown out. Dehumidification
and complete drying are required to ensure all harmful spores and impurities are removed and
cannot spread. Experienced professionals should handle black water cleanup.

No matter what type of water has damaged your home, PCS/PRS is committed to providing a
rapid and well-organized response to your situation. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a
week to serve Derby and surrounding areas. We have more than 20 years of experience, and
will restore your home to its pre-loss condition safely and efficiently. Let Professional
Restoration Services handle all your water damage cleanup needs.