Understanding Water Types

4/7/2017 (Permalink)

Take special precautions when dealing with water damage. Let the professionals at SERVPRO of Gilbert Make it "Like it Never Even Happened"

    It is critical to know what type of water you are dealing with when your home or business suffers from water damage. This ensured that your property will be properly cleaned.

There are types of water. Clean water is water from a broken pipe, or other water source: rainwater is also considered clean. The term Gray water is used for slightly contaminated water. Clean water becomes grey water when it is left untreated allowing bacteria and other contaminants to grow. making the water hazardous.  Black water is highly contaminated and filled with fungi, bacteria, chemicals and more. Black water is typically caused by sewage damage, flooding or any type of natural disaster. Black water should always be handled by trained professionals.

Damage from clean water:

• Shut off the water if possible
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building if safe from potential shock. Do no enter rooms with standing water, as electrical shock hazards may occur.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting. Wipe water from wood furniture after removing lamps and table top items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions to allow even drying.
• Move paintings and art objects, computers, documents and other items that may be sensitive to moisture.
• Do not leave books, magazines and newspapers on wet floors as they may cause staining.
• Do not use household vacuum cleaners to remove water as there is potential for electrical shock or cause damage to the vacuum.
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Do not enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water

Damage from Contaminated Water:

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage. Wash your hands thoroughly if you come in contact with contaminated items. 
• Do not walk through contaminate areas, as you could  spread damage to unaffected areas.
• Do not turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
• Do not use household fans to dry the structure; air flow could spread contaminants.
• Discard any food and/or products for personal for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.

When you have a water damage, don't leave property to chance.

Call SERVPRO of Gilbert  at (480) 558-7620