Water Damage: Causes, Types, and What Constitutes as Water Damage

Water damage is a common and costly problem that can affect homes and businesses. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Causes of Water Damage

• Broken pipes
• Leaking roofs
• Flooding
• Burst water heaters
• Failed or clogged drainage systems

Types of Water Damage

There are three main types of water damage:

• Clean water damage – caused by a source of water that is not contaminated, such as a broken pipe or leaking roof.
• Grey water damage – caused by a source of water that is slightly contaminated, such as a washing machine or dishwasher overflow.
• Black water damage – caused by a source of water that is heavily contaminated, such as sewage or floodwater.

How Much Water Does it Take to Cause Water Damage?

Even a small amount of water can cause water damage if it is not properly dried out. As a general rule, any amount of water that soaks into building materials or furnishings is considered to be water damage.

The amount of water it takes to cause water damage depends on a number of factors, including the type of water, the amount of time it is present, and the materials that are affected.

For example, clean water can cause damage to drywall and other building materials if it is present for an extended period of time. Grey water can cause damage to carpets and other furnishings if it is not properly cleaned up. Black water can cause serious damage to health and property, and it should be cleaned up by a professional.