Water Damage: Causes and Types

Water damage is any type of damage to a property caused by water. It can be caused by a variety of sources, including storms, burst pipes, and leaking appliances.

Causes of Water Damage

• Flooding
• Broken pipes
• Leaky roofs
• Clogged gutters
• Malfunctioning appliances

Types of Water Damage

There are two main categories of water damage:

Category 1 Water Damage

• Clean water that does not pose a health risk
• Sources include broken water pipes, melted ice or snow, and rainwater

Category 2 Water Damage

• Gray water that may contain contaminants and pose a health risk
• Sources include washing machine overflow, toilet overflow, and water used to put out a fire

The Root Cause of Water Damage

The root cause of water damage is often a failure in the building's envelope.

• Envelope failures: These can allow water to penetrate the building through cracks in the foundation, walls, or roof.
• Plumbing failures: These can cause water to leak from pipes, faucets, or appliances.
• Natural disasters: These can cause flooding, which can lead to water damage.