Your Guide to Category Two Water Damage

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

Category two water damage in North Des Plaines, IL

A broken pipe is a common cause of commercial water damage, but not all pipe breaks are the same. Experts classify floodwater into three categories: Category One, sometimes called “clean water”; Category Two, also known as “gray water”; and Category Three, referred to as “black water.” Categories Two and Three require considerable decontamination efforts in addition to ordinary cleanup and water pipe repair.

Sources of Gray Water

Category Two water is water that is mildly to moderately contaminated. It may contain chemicals, bacteria or other organic materials. Some examples of Category Two water include:

• used water from a washing machine or dishwasher
  
• water from a malfunctioning sump pump
  
• water from an overflowing toilet that contains urine, but no feces
  
• water from a fire sprinkler system
  
  

Frequently, Category Two water is actually water which was Category One clean water at the time of the pipe break or other event. Clean water can turn into gray water if it becomes contaminated through contact with dirt, chemicals, and/or bacteria in the environment, such as on the floor of your business. Consider a failed water pipe repair on an upper floor that seeps down to a lower floor. The water could be considered Category One upstairs, but Category Two downstairs, since it becomes contaminated as it passes through the floor, subfloor, insulation and ceiling material.

Gray Water Cleanup
Because Category Two water contains contaminants, it is considered a health hazard to humans and animals. To ensure that the area is properly and thoroughly decontaminated, call a reliable water restoration company in North Des Plaines, IL. Restoration technicians have the equipment and training necessary to completely remove all contaminants and hazardous materials. Be sure to contact these professionals as soon as possible, as Category Two water can become Category Three water within hours.
Never attempt to perform a water pipe repair in a business flooded with Category Two water. Leave any cleanup work that involves hazardous conditions to experienced professionals.