Water Damage: Causes and Types

Causes of Water Damage

Water damage can occur due to various factors, including:

• Natural disasters (e.g., floods, hurricanes)
• Plumbing leaks (e.g., burst pipes, faulty connections)
• Appliance malfunctions (e.g., leaking dishwashers, washing machines)
• Roof damage (e.g., missing shingles, holes)
• Foundation problems (e.g., cracks, seepage)

Types of Water Damage

Water damage is generally categorized into three main types:

Category 1: Clean Water Damage

Clean water damage results from sources such as broken water pipes or overflowing sinks. This water is relatively clean and poses minimal health risks.

Category 2: Gray Water Damage

Gray water damage involves water contaminated with substances that may cause illness. Examples include washing machine overflow, toilet backups, and dishwasher leaks. It poses moderate health risks.

Category 3: Black Water Damage

Black water damage stems from sources with severe contamination, such as sewage backups, floodwaters, and standing water that has remained for an extended period. This water carries high levels of bacteria and poses significant health hazards.