Three Categories Of Water Restoration And The Average Costs To Cleanup

Water damage can come from a variety of sources in our homes. A clean water disaster is a different kind of problem compared to an overflowing dishwasher or washing machine. Those problems are minor compared to a backed-up toilet or sewer pipe. Understanding the source of the water damage can help you, as the homeowner, know the costs associated with the damage and the restoration.

Costs Associated With Water Damage Restoration In Riverside, CA

Water damage restoration and costs vary depending on the water source. While it could be important for you to know the source of your water problem, only water damage specialists like our crew at PRC Inc. can properly categorize it.

Category 1: Clean Water Damage Restoration $3 To $4 Per Square Foot

To be classified as Category 1, the clean water must not have been in contact with chemicals or fecal matter. Although clean water is still a chore to clean up, drying carpets can cost anywhere from $1 to $11 per square foot, and drywall that may need to be replaced can range from $1 to $3 per square foot.

Broken water lines, leaky faucets, or toilet tanks are the primary sources of clean water disasters. Burst pipes, broken sprinklers, faulty water heaters, and rain can also cause clean water damage. Despite the cleanliness of the water damage, time is of the essence; your clean water can turn to mold or mildew if not remediated quickly, and your costs will increase.  

Category 2: Gray Water Damage Restoration $4 To $6.50 Per Square Foot

Although Category 2 water does not contain fecal matter, gray water includes harmful contaminants such as chemicals in detergents or other cleaning solutions. It is important to know that gray water cleanup can be hazardous. Clean-up is more intense with gray water and porous materials, such as hardwood floors, costing between $10 to $15 per square foot. Plaster repair may also be necessary at $6 to $19 per square foot. 

Gray water usually comes from an appliance overflow problem, including your dishwasher or washing machine. Toilet bowl overflow can also be classified as gray water if there is no sign of sewage. A quick clean-up is essential as mold and mildew and the potential of bacteria can drive up the restoration cost. 

Category 3: Black Water Damage Restoration $7 To $7.50 Per Square Foot

Category 3 water is water that has come in contact with sewage. Black water restoration comes at a higher price because any porous materials must be carefully removed to avoid further contamination and completely replaced. Belongings such as carpets and padding, curtains, bedding, clothing, and upholstered furniture as a few listed that would need to be disposed of. 

Black water is usually the result of sewage backup, broken pipes, and backup due to flooding–including overflowing lakes or rivers. To ensure a proper clean-up of clean, gray, or black water damage and restoration, water damage specialists will take all necessary steps to provide a clean and healthy environment after a black water disaster.

Dealing with any category of water damage is frustrating and overwhelming in every way possible. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced team of professionals at PRC Inc. We’re available and ready to help 24/7 to serve you in your time of need best.