Class 3 Water Damage
Class 3 Water Damage (aka “Category 3”) is the most severe type of flooding, where water has completely saturated walls, ceilings, carpets, and even structural materials. Often called “black water,” it’s gross, dangerous, and needs emergency action!
Key Features:
- Worst-case scenario: Over 40% of area soaked
- High-porosity materials: Insulation, drywall, hardwood ruined
- Ceiling/wall collapse risk: From weight of water
- “Black water” contamination: Sewage, chemicals, or outdoor floodwater
Common Causes:
🌊 Natural disasters (hurricanes, river overflows)
💩 Sewer backups
🔥 Firefighting water damage
Example: After a hurricane, 3 feet of floodwater sat in the home for days—destroying walls and leaving toxic sludge (Class 3 nightmare).
⚠️ Health Hazard: Class 3 water contains bacteria, viruses, and chemicals—never DIY this!
Restoration Process:
1️⃣ Hazmat safety gear (masks, suits, respirators)
2️⃣ Gut the structure (remove all porous materials)
3️⃣ Industrial drying (air movers + dehumidifiers)
4️⃣ Antimicrobial treatment (kill all pathogens)
5️⃣ Rebuild from studs (often 100% replacement)
💸 Cost Reality: Class 3 repairs can exceed $100,000—many insurers exclude flood-related cases.
☣️ Visual: Like your house went through a biohazard war zone—total demolition needed! 🚧⚡
Did You Know? Even “clean” water becomes Class 3 if left standing 72+ hours due to bacterial growth!
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