Clean, Grey, and Dirty Water

6/29/2018 (Permalink)

Do you know the difference between clean, grey, and dirty water??

What is Clean Water?

Clean water is water that comes from your faucet or showerhead that you can drink safely. It is also considered rainwater or snowmelt. In regards to water damage to your home, it can come from a broken water line, a busted toilet tank, a leaky washer or refrigerator, or rain or snowmelt entering your home. While clean water flooding your floors may not cause an immediate health risk, it can quickly evolve into the gray water after prolonged contact with building surfaces, material, and items. This can happen within 48 hours which is why it is important to call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball as soon as possible after a flood or water damage.

What is Gray Water?

Gray water is water that may contain chemicals or contaminants that may be harmful to your health. Gray water can come from the shower and sink drains, the washer drain, the dishwasher drain, and aquariums. Gray water can cause even more damage than clean water and can evolve into black water within 48 hours causing even further damage and health risks. 

What is Black Water?

Blackwater is contaminated water from floodwaters and sewage waters. Blackwater can come from a flooded river or a backed up toilet or a backed up sewage line in your home. Blackwater can contain all types of harmful contaminants like bacteria, mold, and viruses that can be extremely harmful to humans. Blackwater can cause diseases and illnesses like cholera, hepatitis, and norovirus. Blackwater can be very dangerous to ones' health and it is imperative to call a professional cleanup team like SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball immediately. If the water damage from Blackwater isn't professionally removed, dried out and cleaned, infections and illnesses can occur from microbes in the air and dust. That is why it is crucial that you hire professionals that have the right tools and processes to ensure a thorough cleanup.