What Is The Difference Between Storm Water vs. Water Damage Cleanup

2/4/2020 (Permalink)

When dealing with Category 3 water damage, the best approach is to contact a flood damage restoration company as soon as possible.

Storms, flooding, and leaks can all damage your home. While water is the source of the damage in all of these situations, the major difference is the category of water involved. Below is listed the three categories of water damage and how cleanup varies between the different categories.

• Category 1 water is clean and treated. A burst supply pipe is the most common source.
• Category 2 water is also known as gray water. This water may contain bacteria or chemicals but not sewage or solid waste.
• Category 3 water is sometimes referred to as black water. Black water is the most common type involved in flooding and is highly contaminated. Sewage loss would also be considered black water loss.

The cleanup procedures for these categories of water damage vary with each category.

Category 1 Cleanup

The water involved in a Category 1 leak is clean and treated. Since bacteria is not a concern, the only cleanup procedures necessary involve eliminating any standing water and thoroughly drying the affected area. You may still want to rely on fans and dehumidifiers to dry the area more quickly and prevent mold from forming.

Category 2 Cleanup

Category 2 cleanup should involve cleaning and disinfection as well as thorough drying. This type of backup or leak is not as severe as damage from a flood or sewer backup.

Category 3 Cleanup

Floods and severe sewage backups involve black water containing solid waste. Cleaning and disinfection are necessary to limit infection risks, and the area must be completely dried to prevent mold.

When dealing with Category 1 damage, the best approach is to quickly eliminate water and moisture that may lead to mold. Most flooding and storm damage cleanup are Category 3 - black water and requires cleaning and disinfection in addition to drying. Resolve any situation as soon as possible by contacting a flood damage restoration company in the Greeley/Windsor area.

Our SERVPRO Professionals are highly trained in property restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, our Professionals are equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Contact SERVPRO of Greeley/Windsor at 970-353-1388 for your mitigation and remediation services. We answer our phones 24/7/365.