Key Things To Know About Category 3 Water Damage and Its Cleanup

7/24/2022 (Permalink)

Even a small toilet overflow with waste can be as hazardous as high flood water.

Category 3 Water Damage

There are three distinct categories of water damage that are determined by contamination level: clean water (Category 1), grey water (Category 2) and black water (Category 3). All three can be detrimental to a space if left untreated, though Category 3 poses the biggest threat and requires swift action to clean up. Here are some key things to know if black water impacts your Willis, TX, business.

Black Water Is Highly Contaminated and Harmful
Category 3 damage boasts the name black water given its substantial contamination levels. Dangerous bacteria, viruses and toxins are present in the water. Common causes of Category 3 water damage include:

• Broken sewer lines
  
• Rising seawater
  
• Groundwater flooding
  
  

It is also likely that grey water that is left untreated for more than 24 hours can become more contaminated and evolve into black water.

Flood Water Is Among the Most Serious Cases
Black water damage occurs in any natural flood, whether it is from heavy rainfall or a storm that elevated sea and river levels. Due to the several inches (and in severe instances, feet) that flood water can pile up, building damage can be extensive. The toxins carried in this water can seep into the structure and become a major repair project.

The Cleaning Process Is Critical
Given the risks that black water presents, always call on a water damage restoration company to tackle the mess. These professionals specialize in extracting the water, drying the space and deep cleaning every area impacted by black water. Sanitizing is crucial for any size space, as even a small toilet overflow with waste can be as hazardous as high flood water.
Category 3 water damage is extremely concerning no matter how it presents itself. If your property is impacted, be sure to properly clean the space with the help of trusted professionals for the highest level of safety.