WATER DAMAGE RESTORATION
Water damage from a sewer backup, bulge pump failure, leaking pipe or main break does not just affect your walls and flooring. If left standing, the water can also affect the integrity of your home’s structure. For this reason, it is essential that the water be removed as quickly as possible.
In our experience, you only have between 24 and 48 hours to avoid more extensive damage. Within that short time frame, the space needs to be cleared of water, damaged items removed, the space dried out and sanitized to prevent mold and mildew. That being said, standing water starts to do damage within one hour of the flood.
Small leaks can normally be handled on your own, but if the flooding is severe, you should hire a reputable company who can quickly and efficiently get the work done for you. A company that specializes in water damage restoration.
After the area is thoroughly dry, clean and sanitized, Unique Exteriors and Restoration can help restore your home to its former condition.
Different Water, Different Solution
There are basically three classes of water damage, and each require specialized treatment. Classes are listed as I, II, and III, each representing a level of severity.
- CLASS I – Clear Water
In this category the water has come from a sanitary source. Although it can still do a great deal of damage, if cleaned promptly it does not pose a substantial health risk. Some examples of clear water sources are: water lines, melting ice & snow, rainwater, and clean toilet tanks. Items that come into contact with clean water can often be dried out and salvaged. - CLASS II – Grey Water
Grey water contains a significant contaminant and can cause illness if you are exposed to it. Contaminants commonly include unsafe levels of: bacteria, mold, viruses, and provide a nutrient-rich environment for other contaminants to grow. Some examples of grey water sources are: dishwasher/washing machine overflow, toilet bowl water with urine, hydrostatic pressure in basements*, broken aquariums, and punctured water beds. Since Category II water does contain significant contamination, carpeting needs to be removed and the area sanitized. - CLASS III – Black Water
Black water, the most dangerous, has high levels of contaminants. These contaminates contain toxins and pathogens that can cause significant illness if you are exposed. Some example of black water sources include: sewage, toilet bowls with feces, rain water from rivers or streams, and weather related flooding from hurricanes and tropical storms. Class III water is so heavily contaminated most items that have been affected must be removed, including: insulation, hardwood flooring, drywall, carpet and carpet padding, couches and cushions.
This is why it is important to make sure you quickly contact a water damage restoration professional who can assess the situation and make educated decision regarding water mitigation.
We're Here to Help
In Owensboro, Unique Exteriors and Restoration has the knowledge and equipment necessary to keep your flood from turning into a disaster. You can contact us 24/7 at (270) 231-7724 for emergency support.
∗ Hydrostatic Pressure refers to a water pressure and is a major cause of basement water problems. Water weighs slightly more than 60lbs. per cubic foot. If the soil around your basement is saturated with water, there could be tens of thousands of pounds of hydrostatic pressure against your foundation. With significant pressure, it’s likely that water will find its way through even the smallest crack or gap in your basement.