The process is complex, and it involves a variety of professionals. It includes securing the property, cleaning smoke and soot, removing water damage, mitigating disturbed hazards, and rebuilding the damaged structure.
Assess the Damage
After the fire department clears a property for entry, it's time to assess the damage. This is usually done by professional fire restoration technicians who use inspection checklists to create a comprehensive property restoration plan. They also work to communicate with insurance adjusters and provide valuable documentation of the scope of damage caused by the fire.
In addition to visible burns and smoke damage, fires can cause hidden damages that may not be immediately apparent. For example, putting out a fire causes water damage that can stain walls and furniture. It also causes lingering odors that can be difficult to eliminate. In addition, melted appliances can leave behind holes in walls and ceilings that need to be repaired.
Remove Smoke and Soot
The first step of fire damage restoration is to remove loose soot from all surfaces. This includes the floors and walls. Be gentle and use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment. You want to avoid spreading soot around the house, which can cause more problems later.
Soot is comprised of carbon-based impurities. This makes it a health hazard, especially when inhaled. It can cause lung irritation and even some types of cancer.
Start using a sponge impregnated with a cleaning chemical, such as Trisodium Phosphate (TSP). Then, wipe down the wall until it is clean. Repeat until the sponge becomes too dirty to continue. Ventilate the area to minimize inhaling soot particles and dissipate smoke odors.
Clean Water Damage
Surviving a fire is significant, but restoration doesn't end there. Even after flames and smoke have been extinguished, the corrosive byproducts left behind can continue to damage surfaces and materials, including leaving a lingering odor.
If water was used to extinguish the fire, any resulting water damage must be addressed quickly. This includes removing soaked items, drying flooring and carpets, and inspecting walls and ceilings for moisture damage.
While healthy, able individuals may choose to tackle the cleaning process on their own, anyone with preexisting conditions should consider having professionals take care of it. This includes seniors, children, pregnant women, and people with asthma or other chronic health problems. Additionally, people with respiratory issues should avoid exposure to soot residue, dust, and ash for safety reasons.
Remove Debris
Once the area has been cleaned and sanitized, it's time to remove debris that can't be saved. This can include melted plastic, flammable items, and other dangerous waste. This may require professional debris removal services. Homeowners insurance often covers these costs, assuming the fire was caused by an event covered under your policy.
Before starting any cleanup, asking for your insurance provider's and restoration experts' advice is a good idea. This way, you can rest assured that you're doing everything right without missing critical steps. You can also consult your local building authorities to ensure the safety of your property. Then, you can move on to repairing any damage and making sure your home is safe and comfortable again.
Rebuild
Once the fire is out and the building has been deemed safe, your fire damage restoration team will start rebuilding your home. This will include repairing structural damage, replacing damaged items, painting walls and ceilings, rewiring electrical wiring, installing new flooring, hanging new drywall, and other repairs.
They will also repair any items that can be saved and may tarp the roof to keep rain, snow, and looters from entering until the building is repaired. They may also board up any windows or doors damaged in the fire and keep out wild animals and squatters.
Rebuilding your house after a fire can be challenging, but it is possible with the right help from a qualified fire restoration company.
Image by Angela Yuriko Smith from Pixabay
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