The Four Major Classes Of Water Damage And What You Can Do To Prevent Them

Water damage service is one of the most common and costly problems faced by homeowners. We see it on the news, read about in the paper, and sometimes even experience it firsthand. Homeowners insurance claims for water damage are on the rise, and according to some estimates, will only continue to increase in the coming years. So what causes all this water damage? And more importantly, what can we do to prevent it?

Three major categories of water damage, each with its own set of causes and consequences.

 1. Water damage is caused by clean water, such as from a broken pipe or leaking appliance. 

2. Water damage is caused by gray water, which may contain harmful bacteria but does not pose a threat to human health. 

3. Water damage is caused by black water, which can contain sewage or other hazardous materials and poses a serious health risk to humans.

Classes of Water Damage and Its Restoration

Classes of water damage are determined by the probable rate of evaporation based on the type of materials affected, or wet, in the room or space that was flooded.

1.  Slow Rate of Evaporation –  In this class , only a portion of a room is effected. Not much moisture is absorbed by the materials. In class 1, < 5% of the total square footage of a room (ceiling+walls+floor) are affected . 
2.  Fast Rate of Evaporation –  In this class, Water affects the entire room of carpet and cushion. Not more than 24 inches of the wall may be wicked. 5% to 40% of the total square footage of a room (ceiling+walls+floor) are affected.
3.  Fastest Rate of Evaporation – In this class, the entire area; walls, ceilings, insulation, carpet, cushion, etc is affected and Water generally comes from overhead. >40% of the total square footage of a room (ceiling+walls+floor) are affected.
4. Specialty Drying Situations –  In this class, materials with a very low permeance/porosity, such as hardwood floors, concrete, crawlspaces, gypcrete, plaster, etc. Drying generally requires very low specific humidity to accomplish drying.

There are many possible causes of water damage, including natural disasters, faulty plumbing, and leaks. To prevent water damage, it is important to take measures such as waterproofing your home and checking for leaks regularly. By taking these precautions, you can minimize the risk of water damage occurring in your home.

Get In touch if you are affected.