Understanding Basics of Fire Damage Restoration
Watching their house go up in flames is a homeowner’s worst nightmare. And their nightmare does not end once the fire is brought under control. They may have to contend with fire damage.
What is Fire Damage?
As the name implies, fire damage is damage caused to a building and/or the items in it by fire. Fire can cause structural damage. Smoke and soot following a fire can damage furniture, upholstery, and appliances. The combustion process can produce hazardous chemicals, especially when synthetic materials burn. The water used to extinguish a fire can cause significant damage to a building’s structure and belongings, and lead to mold growth. It can also damage electrical wiring and components, leading to potential safety hazards.
Fire Damage Restoration Defined
If your property was recently damaged in a fire, have a fire damage restoration expert inspect it and carry out fire restoration near me in Lake County even if everything looks alright. Remember some subtle signs of fire damage can go undetected for weeks, even months. A fire damage restoration expert is equipped to identify and address structural and cosmetic damage caused by a fire.
Professional fire restoration near me in Lake County focuses not only on the visible damage caused by flames but also addresses secondary fire damage. Some types of secondary fire damage include smoke damage, damage caused by the water used to fight a fire, and soot contamination.
The Fire Damage Restoration Process
Fire restoration near me in Lake County involves cleaning fire and smoke damage. A fire damage restoration expert also performs structural and cosmetic repairs to restore fire-damaged properties to their original state.
Below are the steps involved in fire damage restoration.
Inspection and Assessment
Your chosen fire damage restoration specialist assesses the extent of fire, smoke, soot, and water damage to determine the amount of work needed.
Securing the Property
To prevent further damage, the property may need to be secured. This could involve boarding up missing windows and doors and putting a tarp over the damaged roof.
Water Removal and Drying
If the fire was extinguished using water, and water damage has occurred, the professional uses powerful fans to dry out the affected areas. They may also utilize industrial grade dehumidifiers to reduce humidity. This is an important step in minimizing water damage and preventing mold.
Soot and Smoke Removal
Specialized equipment and techniques are used to clean soot from walls, ceilings, and other surfaces. Air scrubbers and foggers may be used to remove smoke odor.
Repair and Renovation
In the final step, the professional repairs any damage caused by the fire to your property’s structure. The scope of work depends on the nature and extent of the damage. To address cosmetic damage, the professional carries out minor repairs such as painting and replacing your drywall. If major structural damage has occurred, the fire damage restoration specialist performs major repairs which may entail reconstructing affected areas.
The Importance of Professional Fire Damage Restoration
Fire restoration near me in Lake County requires expertise, and is, therefore, best left to the experts. It’s not safe to enter a fire damaged building unless it has been thoroughly sanitized and restored by a professional.
If you enter your property immediately after a fire has been brought under control to assess the damage, your roof may fall or walls may cave in, injuring you. A professional is equipped to manage these risks. They have acquired specialized knowledge which enables them to address different types of fire damage.
Many property owners rent another property after a fire and move into it with their loved ones. An experienced, knowledgeable, and skilled professional gets it right the first time. By avoiding mistakes, they are able to wrap up fire damage restoration projects in a timely manner, and can help their customers lower their rent expense.
Here are some other benefits of professional fire damage restoration.
Expertise and Experience
Professionals specializing in fire damage restoration possess the necessary expertise to manage fire damage restoration projects efficiently. They understand the best methods to deal with fire, smoke, and soot damage, and ensure that every nook and cranny of fire-damaged buildings has been thoroughly sanitized.
Quick and Efficient Cleanup
Dealing with the aftermath of a fire can seem overwhelming. A professional can quickly assess the damage caused by a fire and start the cleanup process immediately, preventing further damage.
They Have the Right Tools and Equipment
Professionals use specialized tools to remove soot, smoke, and odors effectively, as well as to dry out and repair fire-damaged properties. These tools can help users avoid mistakes and complete their tasks in the most efficient manner, expediting the restoration process.
Safety
Hazards lurk in every corner of a fire damaged property. Do not try to clean your property or carry out repairs yourself after a fire, as you may accidentally expose yourself to toxic chemicals, smoke, and soot. Fire damage restoration experts are trained to manage hazards. They use PPE kits to avoid exposure to harmful chemicals.
Emotional Support
A residential fire can lead to significant emotional distress. A person whose house was recently damaged in a fire can feel sad and emotionally drained and may struggle to navigate the fire damage restoration process. Professionals manage the fire damage restoration process from beginning to end, ensuring their customers have one less thing to worry about and can stay focused on recovery.
Help with Insurance Claims
Many professional restoration companies offer assistance with insurance claims. They help their customers collect evidence that can be used to substantiate their claims and also assist them in navigating the claims process.
Preventive Measures
In addition to repairing the damage, a professional can suggest measures and recommend modifications to prevent future fires.
West Coast Fire & Water is a leading fire damage restoration company catering to residential and commercial property owners in Lake County. We are equipped to address all types of fire damage. To consult one of our fire damage restoration experts, call 707-462-5326.