Causes and Types of Water Damages

3/13/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage at Church

The moment you step on wet, soggy carpet your heart sinks knowing you have a water issue in your home. Water damages can cost homeowners both time and money to resolve. There can be many causes of water damage in your home from minor issues to major, costly problems. Water damage can start with a slow leak which takes months to notice to a broken pipe that results is massive amounts of water in a short time period.

No matter how your water loss happened, it is important to realize there are three categories for water which will determine how your loss will be remediated.

Clean Water – Is the least harmful form of damage and does not pose a threat to humans.

• Broken or leaking pipe
• Sink overflow

• Ice maker supply line
• Toilet supply line

Grey Water – Water will contain some microorganisms.

• Sink back up
• Sump pump
• Roof leak
• Leaking air conditioner
• Washing machines, dishwasher, water heaters

Black Water – This can be toxic and may contain bacterial diseases, chemicals, pesticides and microbes.

• Flooding
• Foundation problem
• Gutter problems
• Toilet Bowl overflow
• Sewer back-up
• Water damage that sat over 3 days

While you can not prevent all water damages, there are some precautions you can take to minimize your chances of a water loss as follows:

• Regular inspection and maintenance of your roof.
• Make sure your gutters are clean and installed properly.
• Address any foundation issues promptly. Yard should be sloped 6 inches over a 10-foot span away from your foundation.
• Test your sump pump twice a year by filling your sump pump pit with water to the float level. Make sure your sump pump turns on and the water level goes down.
• Have your air conditioner checked yearly.
• If you are leaving your home for an extended period, turn off your main water line and drain your pipes. This is most important in the winter months where your pipes could freeze if your home loses power.
• When you flush, make sure your toilet drains completely. If you do have an issue, turn the water supply line off and unclog your toilet.
• Inspect and replace worn pipe fittings and hose connections to household appliances once a year.

Call SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus if you have any questions regarding a water loss.