The Problems With Water Damage

As we’re in the time of year where household plumbing maintenance is most important, water leaks and their resulting effects are a common topic of conversation. One of the primary purposes of yearly plumbing maintenance is to avoid water damage and related issues, and we specialize in this area at All Hours Plumbing, Drain Cleaning, Heating & Cooling.

If you’ve done a good job with your maintenance over the years, chances are you’ve never had to come face to face with some of the biggest issues that can arise through major water damage. How is water damaged classified, and what risks might you be at if you don’t take proper precautions?

Causes of Water Damage

Water damage in the home can be caused by a number of different factors, including the following:

• Leaking pipes or dishwashers
• Clogged toilets
• Broken hoses
• Overflowing washing machines or dishwashers
• Leaky roofs
• Cracks in the foundation of the home
• Floods, or heavy snowfall or rainfall

Categories and Classes

Water damage is generally separated into categories and classes based on the type of water involved in the damage and the water damage repair that may be necessary. For types of water, categories are used:

• Category 1: Clean water which does not pose a threat to human health, usually from sinks, dishwashers or your water heater
• Category 2: Gray water that’s contaminated and can cause sickness or death, usually from toilets or sewage runoff
• Category 3: Black water that’s fully unsanitary and may contain bacteria

When assessing overall damage and repairs that may be needed, classes are used:

• Class 1: Least harmful, materials have absorbed much of the damage
• Class 2: More serious, requires a fast rate of evaporation. Usually involving carpets or cushions
• Class 3: For issues like broken sprinklers or overhead water sources, involves the fastest evaporation rate
• Class 4: Special water restoration and removal procedures are needed, and can affect hardwood floors, plaster and concrete

Health Issues

Water damage can have mild to severe health effects if not treated properly and immediately in most cases. Some of these issues can include:

• Mold
• Bacteria growth
• Increased risk of respiratory disease
• Increased allergy and asthma symptoms
• Further issues for people with weak immune systems

As one of the premier plumber services in Utah, we’ve seen every water damage issue imaginable at All Hours Plumbing, Drain Cleaning, Heating & Cooling. Our technicians are available 24 hours a day to help with any of these or other plumbing issues you may have.