4 Steps To Clean Category 3 Water

11/8/2020 (Permalink)

Water damaged warehouse

Four Steps When Recovering From Water Damage

Category 3 water, also known as black water, usually comes from flood water or toilet overflows. Black water is considered to be the dirtiest of the three types of water and is likely to contain high levels of bacteria, viruses, chemicals, debris, or other contaminants. Restoring your business in Bonney Lake, WA, to normal after category 3 water damage requires special considerations, including disinfection. Here are four steps that must be completed when recovering from water damage due to highly contaminated water.

1. Remove the Water
The first step is to clean up any excess water. If it is only a small spill, you may be able to clean it yourself. However, if you have experienced a larger disaster or toilet overflow, you may need the help of professionals who have access to water extraction technology.

2. Identify Moist Spots
Moisture from flood water can hide beneath carpeting, inside walls, and under floors. Moisture detecting devices can be used to help you find where water is hiding.

3. Dry the Area
It is important to dry the area as quickly as possible. The longer the water sits, the more time bacteria have to multiply and the more likely it is that mold will begin to form. Some species of mold can begin growing in as little as 24-48 hours. Professionals use industrialized blowers to speed up the drying process, which minimizes damage.

4. Disinfect
Since category 3 water is considered unsafe, it is necessary to disinfect any materials that have come into contact with the water. A bleach and water solution, biocide, or other professional product can be used to kill off any remaining organisms.
Damage from flood water can have a huge impact on business operations. However, when you choose to work with a professional water remediation company, you can have your building back to its pre-flood condition as quickly as possible.