When a Kitchen Drain Fails: Managing a Category 2 Water Loss in San Carlos

A kitchen sink drain line failure can quickly escalate from a plumbing issue into a possible health concern. In a San Carlos area home, a compromised kitchen drain line resulted in a Category 2 water loss, introducing grey water into the living space. PuroClean of Clairemont promptly dispatched a crew led by Daniel, one of our experienced technicians, to assess the damage and begin mitigation efforts.

Upon arrival, Daniel’s team found the kitchen significantly impacted. The water damage had affected multiple materials, including drywall, insulation, cabinetry, and flooring. Given the nature of Category 2 water, rapid action was critical. The affected zone was sketched, moisture readings were documented, and a detailed scope of work was created before mitigation began.

With planning complete, the team moved directly into the dry-out phase. Industrial-grade drying equipment was strategically placed throughout the kitchen to stabilize conditions and preserve as many materials as possible – and to stop the spread of moisture in its tracks. Dehumidifiers and high-powered air movers worked together to reduce moisture levels and create evaporative airflow across affected surfaces. Over the course of three days, the crew returned daily to monitor progress, adjust equipment, and prepare the site for necessary demolition. During this time, contents and appliances within the affected area were carefully moved out to allow for safe and efficient work.

Once drying progress was confirmed and unsalvageable materials were identified, the team proceeded with controlled demolition. A HEPA air scrubber was placed to maintain air quality and minimize the spread of dust or contaminants during removal activities. Protective plastic sheeting was laid across the floor to simplify cleanup and protect unaffected flooring.

The demolition process began with the careful removal of damaged cabinetry. To prevent unnecessary damage, the countertop was shored up using wooden 2×4 supports before work continued. Using a KettSaw and oscillating tools, the crew made clean, precise cuts in the drywall, allowing large sections to be removed efficiently. Behind the walls, saturated insulation was fully removed to expose the framing and eliminate lingering contamination and moisture.

With demolition complete, attention turned to detailed structural cleaning. Every nail and screw was removed from the wood framing to ensure nothing interfered with drying or future repairs. The entire work area was thoroughly HEPA vacuumed, reaching into corners, cavities, and framing intersections to remove dust and debris. All exposed surfaces were then treated with an EPA registered anti-microbial spray, followed by a comprehensive wipe-down to clean, sanitize, and reduce the risk of future microorganism growth.

After cleaning, the drying equipment was repositioned to target the newly exposed areas. This final drying phase ensured all materials met industry drying standards. By the following day, moisture levels were within acceptable ranges, and the home was officially ready to move forward with repairs and reconstruction.

At PuroClean of Clairemont, we understand the stress and nightmares that are property damage. If you find yourself in such an unfortunate event, please don’t hesitate to give our team a call for professional restoration and mitigation services at (858)-869-1313. We are one team leading the PuroClean way.