Water Damage Repair: Assessing, Identifying, and Treating Water Damage

Experiencing water damage can be a stressful and overwhelming situation. Prompt and effective water damage repair is crucial to prevent further damage and maintain the safety and integrity of your property.

Assessing Water Damage

To ensure proper water damage repair, it is essential to assess the extent of the damage. This involves:

  • Determining the source of the water leak or flood
  • Inspecting the affected areas for visible damage, such as wet floors, walls, or ceilings
  • Assessing the type of water (e.g., clean water, sewage water, contaminated water)
  • Identifying any structural damage to the property

Identifying the Type of Water Damage

The type of water damage determines the specific repair techniques required. The three main categories of water damage are:

Category 1: Clean Water

Water from a source that is considered relatively clean, such as a broken water pipe, a leaky roof, or a clean appliance.

Category 2: Gray Water

Water that is slightly contaminated with sewage, such as from a toilet overflow, a washing machine hose break, or a dishwasher leak.

Category 3: Black Water

Water that is heavily contaminated with sewage, fecal matter, or other hazardous substances, such as from a sewage backup, a flooded river, or a burst plumbing pipe.

What to Spray After Water Damage

After identifying the type of water damage, it is important to promptly address the affected areas to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.

For Category 1 water damage, it is recommended to spray an antimicrobial solution to kill any microorganisms that may have been introduced during the flooding.

For Category 2 and 3 water damage, it is essential to use a professional disinfectant approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to neutralize contaminants and prevent the spread of disease.