We’ve all experienced water damage at some point in our lives. It’s annoying, but it can also be dangerous. Even small amounts of water can cause negative properties and health effects. That’s why it’s so important to contact a professional who can remove the moisture properly before it becomes a problem.  

There Are Several Causes of Water Damage

Moisture can collect from leaky pipes, pipe fittings, roofs, and foundations. Something as simple as a refrigerator icemaker or a dishwasher can leak in places you can’t see until it is too late.

External sources of moisture damage come from floods, but groundwater seepage and sewer backups are also common causes. Not only does this type of damage ruin your property, but it can also endanger your health!

Not All Water Damage is the Same

How to approach water damage depends upon the category of water in your home. There are three types of water that cause damage: clean, grey, and blackwater. Some water types are considered a bigger threat than others, but all categories must be dealt with swiftly.

Water does not just damage walls, ceilings, and floors. It may also come into contact with electricity in your home, creating the risk of electrocution. Contact a professional right away.

Even Clean Water Can Damage Property

Clean water is not considered an immediate threat, but that doesn’t mean it’s harmless. If it’s left in walls, floors, roofs, or pipes, moisture can cause mold to grow. Mold may not seem serious, but it can be. If you or a loved one are sensitive to mold, it can make you sick with infections, coughs, wheezing, and worsening asthma.

You may think mopping up a spill with a towel will solve the problem. Sometimes a towel will do the trick, but you never know what is happening under the surface. Clean water, like any other type, can damage wood and laminate floors, which adds up to expensive repairs and replacement.

Greywater Damage is Hazardous

Greywater, unlike clean water, contains microorganisms and waste. Toilet water that contains urine but no feces is considered greywater, but so is sump pump failure or water discharge from washing machines.

Not only can greywater damage your property and health the same way clean water can, but it also poses additional health hazards. Exposure over time will likely cause more serious health conditions. The problem comes from the waste and chemicals in the water that can lead to infections and illness. The longer greywater remains untreated, the greater the risk. That’s why it’s so important to contact professionals.

Blackwater Damage is Serious

Unlike clean and greywater, blackwater damage is an immediate threat. Sources of blackwater include raw sewage and flooding and can contain disease, unsafe chemicals, and other dangers. Do not handle black water or the items it has touched.

Instead, contact California Steam Clean right away. We are IICRC certified with experienced technicians. Our family-owned and operated business can clean any water damage quickly and efficiently.