The different levels of water damage

If flooding hits your home or other accidents occur, you need a professional. Water damage is the primary risk. But mold becomes a greater possibility too — if spaces are not properly dehumidified and ventilated. If you’re careful, you can avoid that potentially expensive risk. First, we evaluate the situation based on the quantity of water, absorption of it, and where it is.

Let’s talk about the four main levels that can happen from water damage.

Level 1: little water absorption and small evaporation load.

Our biggest concern is the porous material. Porous materials include carpets, gypsum board, fiberfill insulation, and walls and ceilings. In this class, these materials will comprise less than 5% of the affected area. With few exceptions, a “class 1” is usually materials that can be easily evaporated. Low evaporation materials include concrete, masonry, plaster, and wood.

Level 2: mid-range water absorption and evaporation load.

This is more serious. Here, there is water intrusion on those porous materials between 5-40%. We want to remediate right away! The low evaporation materials haven’t absorbed much, however. And other “low evaporation assemblies” — like multilayered wallboard and subfloors, gym floors, etc. — haven’t, either. Certified & Insured professionals should be getting involved to help remedy the problem.

Level 3: highest water absorption and evaporation load.

This is when your porous materials represent more than 40% of the affected area. Still, the low evaporation materials and assemblies have absorbed little moisture.

Level 4: deep, unmoving water intrusion.

Your low evaporation materials and assemblies have absorbed a serious amount of water. Drying and ventilating will take much longer than usual. We will need to use special machines in order to preserve the foundations of your home — if possible. A Professional Restoration Company should be on scene.

Classes 3 and 4 are obviously the most dangerous types of water damage. The faster the response time the better, that is our goal!  We are always happy to answer any questions and explain up front what has to be done.

At 24 Restore, we service Minneapolis, Saint Paul and all surrounding areas around the Twin Cities. Our 24 hour response team can help clean and restore your home from water and flood damage services of water cleanup in St Paul.