The Perils of Black Water

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

Floodwaters enter a home in Clayton, MO.

Water Damage Categories

After a flood occurs in Clayton, MO, the lingering effects of water take on many different forms. Three categories describe the different types of water damage that could exist after a disaster. The categories describe not only the intensity of the damage but also the method necessary for cleaning and repairing the destruction.

1. Category 3, the category into which all floodwater falls, is the most perilous and requires the most intensive cleanup. This type of water is called black water.

• What is it? Category 3 water comes from outside sources, such as sewage. Bacteria contaminate these sources to a dangerous level.

• What does it affect? The water impacts any surface that is porous. Contaminated water soaks into materials, rendering them dangerous to anyone who encounters them.

• How do you clean nonporous materials? Clean areas that are unable to soak up water by simply disinfecting surfaces.
• How do you clean porous materials? First, contain the affected areas by setting off the contaminated areas. Then, cut out materials containing sewage. Replace with new parts.

2. Category 2, called grey water, describes damage due to water that is somewhat contaminated, such as water from the dishwasher. The water will not make you sick unless you drink a lot of it. The water damage is cleaned similarly to Category 1. Technicians may additionally use a disinfectant.

3. Category 1 describes damage due to clean water, such as a broken pipe. To clean, technicians simply remove water from affected materials with an extractor, drill holes under baseboards to allow air flow, and arrange air movers and dehumidifiers to dry things out.

When you begin the process of cleaning and repairing destruction due to water, first determine the category of the damage. Use this knowledge to determine how to safely and efficiently disinfect and restore affected and contaminated building materials. Remember that water damage due to category 3 waters is perilous. Avoid contact with contaminated water or materials. The water will not harm you if you know what it is, what it affects, and how to clean it.