Categories: Lifestyle

How Do You Identify The Different Types Of Water Damage In Your House?

Water damage can occur in New York due to various reasons, such as flooding, broken pipes, defective sewage systems, storm damage, and more. However, experts advise people to take immediate steps; otherwise, it can compromise structural integrity or the house’s foundation.

Before you approach to fix the issue, you have to understand the different categories of water damage and what you are dealing with. This will help to take effective and immediate identification and water damage remediation.

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3 Types Of Water Damage

You need to be aware of three common types of water damage.

Category 1 – Clean Water

If water damage is caused by uncontaminated sources, it is termed clean water damage. The core reasons behind it are broken water supply lines, appliances malfunctioning, or the tub and sink overflowing.

You need to pay attention to the situation, even if the water damage does not have any significant health risk, as it can create structural damage and also lead to mold and mildew growth.

Identifying The Signs

If you find unexplained water areas on the wall or visible dampness on the floor, these are signs of clean water damage. If moisture is trapped in the surroundings, you can also smell musty. The ceiling can be saggy, or the building materials are swelling.

The paint can also detach from the surfaces, or you can see patches or discoloration on the floor and walls.

Category 2 – Greywater

If you find a significant level of contamination in the water, this is called greywater damage. The water contains chemicals, soap, and microorganisms, which, if exposed, can lead to health hazards or other discomforts.

Usually, the root cause of the issue is an overflowing washing machine, dishwasher, or toilet and a faulty sump pump system.

Identifying The Signs

The most prominent sign of greywater damage is water appearing grey or discolored due to contamination. You can also find a foul or unpleasant odor from the water, and the source associated with it is leakage in appliances or fixtures.

This can also cause structural issues and provide a fair environment for mold growth, which can only be sorted by a property renovation company. Thus, to prevent property damage and safeguard the health of your family members, the greywater damage should be addressed immediately.

Category 3 – Blackwater

The most contaminated of the three types of water damage is blackwater, which contains harmful pathogens and bacteria. This type of water damage is hazardous and causes health hazards. The typical source of origin is sewage backups, floods in the river, or stagnant water, which leads to microbial growth.

Identifying The Signs

You can detect blackwater by its cloudy and muddy appearance. You can also find an unpleasant, strong, and pungent smell due to the severe contamination that occurs through water intrusion from sewage systems, natural flood water, or any unsanitary source.

These waters are considered to create severe structural damage and significant health risks. Thus, you need to appoint professionals who are trained to handle blackwater. Only a certified professional can provide you with safe and effective remediation.

Conclusion

If you cannot identify hidden leakage, check the water bills, which are usually high in case of water damage.

Thus, to determine the source of water intrusion, you must employ experts from zicklincontracting.com who utilize advanced leak detection technology and can identify the invisible mold growth to provide water remediation service.