Repairing a water-damaged home entails a process that begins with an inspection. This inspection is done to survey how water has damaged the floors, walls, and ceilings in a home. Using a company that specializes in restoration services can help you assess the extent of the damage.
An Inspection Is First Made to Assess the Damage
When an inspection is performed by a water damage restoration company in Pittsburgh, PA, the water damage is classified and categorized so technicians in the field can use the best tools and techniques to restore the property. Therefore, water damage falls under four classes.
Class 1 and Class 2 Water Damage
Companies, such as Disaster Restoration Services, define water damage that shows the least level of damage as Class 1. This type of damage involves a portion of a room that has absorbed a small amount of moisture. Class 2 damage impacts an entire living area. The water has saturated both the carpeting and walls.
Class 3 and Class 4 Water Damage
When water damage is listed as Class 3 by a damage restoration company, water has saturated the walls and most of the area. The water may have come through the ceiling as well. Class 3 damage is considered the worst type of water damage. If water damage is defined as Class 4, specialty drying is needed to dry materials, such as stone, concrete, or hardware.
Category 1 and Category 2 Water Damage
A damage restoration company also categorizes water damage. For example, Category 1 damage is from a clean water source, such as a toilet tank or a broken pipe that supplies clean water. Category 2 damage involves gray water, or water that comes from a washing machine or dishwasher that contains detergents. Toilet overflows are also listed under this category.
Category 3 Water Damage
Category 3 water damage is water that is called “black,” or water that is considered completely unsanitary. This type of water can trigger sickness, disease, or even death. Category 3 water comes from river floods, sewage, or standing water that has started to grow harmful bacteria or other microbes.
