The Essential Guide to Water Damage: Causes, Types, and Categories
Causes of Water Damage
Water damage can be caused by a wide range of factors, including:
- Natural disasters: Hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes
- Plumbing failures: Burst pipes, leaky faucets, and malfunctioning appliances
- Roof leaks: Damage to shingles or flashing
- Sewer backups: Obstructions or blockages in sewer lines
Types of Water Damage
Water damage is classified based on the source of the water:
Category 1: Clean Water
* Caused by accidental spills, rain, or overflow from appliances.
* No microbial contamination present.
Category 2: Gray Water
* Comes from sources such as washing machines, dishwashers, and toilets.
* Contains bacteria and other contaminants that can cause illness.
Category 3: Black Water
* Most severe type of water damage.
* Originates from sewage, floodwaters, or other contaminated sources.
* Contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and toxins that can pose serious health risks.