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.