Understanding Water Damage In Oak Ridge, TN

6/15/2017 (Permalink)

Water damage in a Oak Ridge Home

Understanding Water Types

When your home or business suffers a water damage, understanding what type of water you are dealing with is critical to ensure proper cleanup. There are three types of water. Clean, gray and black water is usually from a broken pipe. The term gray water is used to classify slightly contaminated water. Clean water becomes gray water when it is left untreated allowing bacteria and other contaminates to begin growing, making the water hazardous. Blackwater is highly contaminated and can be filled with fungi, bacteria, chemicals, and more. Blackwater is typically caused by sewage damage, flooding or natural disasters. Blackwater should always be handled by trained professionals. When you have water damage, don’t leave your property to chance. Call SERVPRO of Oak Ridge. Consider taking the following precautions to help minimize damage or prevent further damage while waiting for help to arrive.

Damage from Clean Water

Shut off water source if possible or contact a qualified professional to do so.

Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building if access to the power distribution panel is safe from potential electrical shock. Do not enter rooms with standing water, as electrical shock hazards may exist.

Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting. Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.

Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions to allow more even drying.

Move any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other valuable items, that may be sensitive to moisture, to a safe place.

Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors as they may cause staining.

Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water as there is potential for electrical shock or causing damage to a vacuum cleaner.

Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet; do not enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

Damage from Contaminated Water

Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage. Wash your hands thoroughly if you come in contact with contaminated items.

Do not walk through contaminated areas, as you could spread damage to unaffected areas.

Do not turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.

Do not use household fans to dry the structure; air flow could spread contaminants.

Discard any food and/or products for personal hygiene if exposed to the contaminated areas.