Having your home destroyed by water, whether by your own carelessness or by an act of Mother Nature, can be a traumatic experience. Anyone can suffer from this type of damage at any time. Therefore, it is important to become educated about water damage and learn how to address it.
Below we have answered some common questions about water damage to help familiarize you with its causes and the steps that you should take for restoring your home after water damage.
What Causes Water Damage?
Water damage may occur from natural disasters, pipe bursts, roof leaks, water heater overflows, poor drainage, appliance malfunctions, and foundational leaks. Fires can also lead to this type of damage.
Are All Types of Water Damage the Same?
No, water damage is classified into three categories:
Clean Water
Clean water or Category 1 water damage comes from uncontaminated sources and do not pose any health hazard to humans if exposed to them. Sources of water that can lead to Category 1 water damage include faucets, drinking fountains, toilet tanks, etc.
Grey Water
Grey water or Category 2 water damage comes from sources such as washing machines, dishwashers, and toilet overflow with urine. Category 2 water contains contaminants that can cause illness and discomfort if ingested.
Black Water
Black water or Category 3 water damage is the most hazardous of the three types of water damage. It is mostly the result of sewage damage or a natural disaster. This type of water may contain toxic materials such as chemicals, pesticides, bacteria, microbes and more.
Should I Handle Water Damage on My Own?
You should never attempt to restore your home on your own after water damage. This is because you likely will not have the commercial-grade equipment required to dry the damaged areas. In addition, proper safety equipment must be worn when addressing any water damage. If you are exposed to dangerous contaminants in the water, you might experience serious health issues.
Can Water Damage Cause the Growth of Mold?
Water damage can certainly lead to mold growth if damaged materials are not dried properly. Removing the water and addressing the source of the water damage immediately can help you prevent mold growth.
Who Should I Call for Water Damage Restoration
If your home sustains water damage, call the water damage restoration professionals at STOP Restoration (S.T.O.P.) to restore your home. We offer 24/7 emergency services in the Bucks, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties. You can reach us at 844-777-STOP (7867) to set up an appointment for an estimate. If you need immediate emergency services, we will arrive at your doorstep with all the required equipment to complete the drying and dehumidifying process.
