Fire damage can be one of the most devastating natural disasters. For families, it can destroy their treasured possessions and the roof over their heads. For businesses, it can mean a loss of profits.
Restoration companies can help limit the damage and hardship caused by a fire. They will thoroughly assess the property and its contents before determining what can be restored.
Removal of Smoke and Soot
Fire restoration professionals use industrial-grade cleaning equipment to clean surfaces and odors thoroughly. They also document the work for insurance claims, which saves owners time and money in the long run.
Soot results from incomplete combustion and appears as a fine black powdery substance that clings to walls, kitchen appliances, and exhaust pipes. It can cause etching in glass, tarnish metal, and leave behind a persistent smoky smell. The longer soot remains in an environment, the more it damages its surroundings.
Soot particles, when inhaled, can cause respiratory problems such as asthma and bronchitis in humans. In addition, the acids in soot can damage carpets and other porous building materials.
Removal of Water Damage
Closely related to fire damage cleanup is water damage restoration. Often, the water used to put out the fire will leave behind pools of moisture that can quickly lead to mold, wood rot, and other types of damage. A reputable company like Pure Restore will use water detection technology to locate the source of moisture and address it. Excess water will be pumped out using tools like submersible pumps, and the area will then be dried thoroughly with powerful dehumidifiers.
Once the charred debris is removed, professionals will work to repair and reconstruct the damaged areas of the property. They will also clean smoke-damaged contents, determining what needs to be cleaned and what should be discarded. They may also use thermal fogging or ozone generators to remove any lasting odors from fabrics in the home. These odors are often caused by chemicals and harmful particles released during the fire, which can linger in ventilation systems.
Removal of Bacteria
Many people are tempted to sell a property after it has been damaged by fire or water. However, environmental cleanup is necessary to ensure the safety of occupants and reduce future damage to the building. Moreover, it can significantly increase the value of a commercial property.
A good fire restoration company is prepared to respond to a disaster immediately and will work hand in hand with the insurance provider to speed up the cleanup process. They will also identify items that cannot be restored and help dispose of them.
Removal of Mold
A fire restoration company must also be ready to remove mold growth from the environment. This process may include pumping out all moisture and using special fans to dry items before sanitizing them.
Some types of building materials are especially conducive to the growth of molds. These include wood products, paper, vinyl wallpaper, drywall, and insulation materials. Airborne mold spores may lead to health issues in people with allergies, asthma, or a compromised immune system. They can also cause other respiratory conditions in infants.
The type of mold growing in a home will determine whether or not it is a risk to the family’s health. Orange or red mold is a sign of toxic mold and should be removed immediately. White mold typically indicates that it is in the early stages of growth. To test whether a stain is mildew or mold, dab it with a cotton swab dipped in household bleach. If the stain lightens, it is mildew; if it does not, it is most likely dirt.
