Understanding Types of Water

5/25/2020 (Permalink)

A Ponte Vedra Beach Resort was affected by storm surge and sewage back up after Hurricane Matthew.

When your Home or Business is suffering from Water Damage, understanding the types of Water is essential to clean-up. The IICRC and SERVPRO of Jacksonville Beach/Ponte Vedra recognize three types of Water.

Clean Water, or Category 1 Water is Water from a broken pipe, or other water source; rainwater is also considered clean.

The term Gray Water, or Category 2 Water, is used to classify water that is slightly contaminated. Clean water can become gray water if left untreated, allowing bacteria to form.

Black Water, or Category 3 Water, is water that has been contaminated by sewage or a natural disaster. This water type should always be handled by licensed, trained professionals. When water damage occurs trust local SERVPRO of Jacksonville Beach/Ponte Vedra professionals.

Consider taking the following precautions while waiting for help to arrive, to minimize secondary damage.

Damage from Clean Water:

-Shut off water source if possible.

-Remove as much access water as possible with mops and towels, wiping excess water from wood furniture.

-Turn off circuit breakers in wet areas of your home or business.

-Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions.

-Move any paintings, art objects, and other items that may be sensitive and move them to an unaffected area.

-Do not leave books, newspapers, or magazines on wet carpets or floors. They may cause staining.

-Do not use your household vacuum to remove water. There is danger of electrical shock.

-Do not turn on ceiling fixtures. Do not enter rooms where ceilings are sagging. It could be dangerous.

Damage from Contaminated Water:

-Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated with sewage.

-Do not walk through wet and contaminated areas.

-Do not turn on the HVAC system.

-Do not use house hold fans to try to dry the structure.

-Discard any food and/or products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.