Water Damage: Causes and Types
Causes of Water Damage
Water damage to buildings and homes can have a variety of causes, the most common being:
- Burst pipes
- Leaking faucets or appliances
- Flooding
- Heavy rain
- Snowmelt
- Condensation
- Roof leaks
- Foundation cracks
Types of Water Damage
Water damage can be categorized into three main types:
Category 1: Clean Water
Clean water is water that does not pose a serious health risk. It typically comes from sources such as broken water pipes, leaking faucets, or overflows.
Category 2: Gray Water
Gray water is water that contains some contaminants, such as bacteria or chemicals. It can come from sources such as washing machines, dishwashers, or toilets.
Category 3: Black Water
Black water is water that contains sewage, hazardous chemicals, or other contaminants that pose a serious health risk. It can come from sources such as flooding, sewage backups, or contaminated water sources.
Is Water Damage the Same as Flood Damage?
Flood damage is a specific type of water damage that occurs when water overflows a natural or man-made barrier, such as a riverbank or levee. Flood damage is often more severe than other types of water damage, as it can involve large amounts of water and can cause significant structural damage to buildings and homes.