Understanding Water Types From Water Damage

7/15/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Toms River cleaning contaminated black water containing sewage and other contaminants.

When your home or business suffers from a water damage, understanding what type of water you are dealing with is critical to ensure proper cleanup. 

There are three types of water:

1. Clean water is thewater that comes from a broken pipe, or other water source, like rainwater.
2. Gray water is used to describe water that is slightly contaminated. Clean water can become gray water when it is left untreated, allowing bacteria and other contaminants to begin to grow, making the water hazardous.
3. Black water is highly contaminated and filled with fungi, bacteria, chemicals, and more. It is typically caused by sewage damage, flooding or any natural disaster.

If you suffer from contaminated water damage you should:

1. Avoid all contact with any water containing contaminants. Wash any body part that has come into contact with the contaminated water. 
2. Never walk through contaminated areas, as you could spread damage to unaffected areas.
3. Do not turn on the HVAC system because there could be a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
4. Do not use household fans to dry the structure because the air flow could spread contaminants.
5. Do not eat or use any food and/or personal products personal for hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to contaminated areas.

When you do suffer a water damage in Ocean County from either clean or contaminated water, call the experts at SERVPRO of Toms River. We are water removal and cleanup specialists that are ready to service your Toms River home when flooding causes water damage. We quickly dry your property using state-of-the-art water removal equipment and advanced drying techniques, documenting the drying process to make sure your property is dry and the job is done right.