Quickly and correctly classifying water loss after damage is sustained is key to addressing cleanup in a fast, efficient manner. Timely repair is necessary in preventing the worsening of existing damage to a more advanced class of water loss, controlling its spread, and preventing the health consequences of water destruction.
Signs of Class 2 Water Loss
Class 2 water loss affects the entire room. Damaged materials in class 2 water loss typically include:
- Carpet
- Cushion
- Plywood
- Particle board
- Structural wood
- VCT (vinyl composition tile)
- Concrete
Class 2 Water Loss Damage
In this class, the water loss affects the entire room including carpet and cushion. In addition, moisture remains in structural materials such as plywood, particle board, structural wood, VCT, and concrete, and water seepage is seen up to 24 inches up the walls.
Jump to another class of water loss:
- Class 1 Water Loss: Slow rate of evaporation
- Class 3 Water Loss: Fastest rate of evaporation
- Class 4 Water Loss: Specialty drying situations
How to Prevent Further Damage
- Timing
Address the situation as quickly as possible to prevent further deterioration and progressive damage. Class 2 water loss can quickly degrade to class 3, and clean, stagnant water can easily progress to category two or three water contamination. Water, time, and temperature promote the growth of microorganisms and can quickly cause clean, category one water to progress to category two and three grey and black water. - Circulate and ventilate
It is important to promote drying the area using circulation and ventilation. Fresh, moving air discourages the growth of microorganisms and drying the area as quickly as possible prevents further seepage. - Remove unsalvageable debris
If you are able and if it is safe to do so, remove unsalvageable debris and expose saturated areas to air to reduce microbial growth and enhance drying capability. - Stay safe
When possible, wait for professional restoration help. If you cannot wait, be certain to use gloves, splash goggles, and an organic respirator or paint respirator mask when dealing with any damaged areas to prevent exposure to microorganisms or spores.
