Fire damage is one of the most destructive things that can happen to a property. Not only can a fire take things away with it, but it also leaves so much behind in its wake. Even after the fire is put out, there is continual damage that can occur. As fires burn, soot and smoke coat everything in your home, affecting areas that were untouched by the flames. Additionally, to put out the fire, water has to be used, leaving behind water damage. Because there are so many problems that happen when a fire happens, restoration work should begin as soon as possible to minimize damage.
Fire Damage Restoration – Columbia SC
Before beginning the process, it’s important to understand what this kind of restoration is. Fire damage restoration is the process in which damage caused by fire, smoke, and corrosive byproducts is repaired and restored. This process includes removing corrosion from surfaces and furnishings caused by soot and other byproducts as well as odors from smoke. If it is not taken care of properly, the problems caused by the fire can actually worsen as time goes on.
What Happens During Fire Damage Restoration?
In this article, we will cover each step in order to fully understand what happens when you call a team to help you with the cleanup.
Inspection
Before anything can be done to the property, a professional needs to assess the situation. They will look for anything from fire, soot, and water damage present in the home. They will also look at your items affected by the fires and determine whether or not they are repairable. After the inspection, the experts will inform you of the cost to continue with the restoration process and how long it will take.
Property Stabilization
The heat that comes along with fires creates a dangerous situation when it comes to the stabilization of your home. Fires can cause damage to the bones of your home, weakening its structural integrity. Because of that, professionals will need to secure your home to the best of their ability to ensure its safety during the restoration process. Securing your home may include things like using tarps over missing roofing or board-up services.
Cleaning And Removal
The first step of the restoration process is to begin removing anything that cannot be saved by cleaning or restoration. Unfortunately, there are some things that may be too far gone to save. Professionals will always try to clean your items, while removal is a last resort. Any of these items that can be saved will be taken from the property to be properly cleaned, removing any trace of soot or smoke.
Water Damage Restoration
Unfortunately, when you experience a fire, fire damage isn’t the only thing you have to worry about. Water has to be used to put out the fires that erupted, so water damage is bound to happen. Luckily, water damage can be taken care of during the restoration process. Excess water will be extracted, then further drying and dehumidifying will begin to remove water from anything that still contains water to prevent mold growth.
Soot And Smoke Restoration
Fire leaves behind many remnants like soot and smoke. Both of these are notoriously difficult to remove and, if handled incorrectly, can stick around for life. When experts are called in, they use powerful chemicals that eliminate any soot and smoke left on walls, ceilings, countertops, and other surfaces and objects throughout your home. The odor of the smoke is also included in this restoration to ensure that you aren’t left with a constant reminder of what once was.
Cleaning
Now that the home is rid of smoke, soot, and water, professionals will begin the cleaning and disinfecting process. Every surface that you can think of will be cleaned to ensure that no bacteria, contaminants, or leftover soot particles are left behind. Cleaning should always be performed by experts trained in the safety and sanitization requirements of fire-damaged homes. During the cleaning process, they will also dispose of any damaged materials that cannot be restored.
Restoration
The last step in the fire damage cleanup process is restoring anything that can be saved from fire damage. During this step, specialists will return your home back to its original state to the best of their ability. Any items that cannot be restored due to permanent damage will be replaced. This includes reconstruction of damaged structural elements, remodeling, painting, and installation of new drywall, flooring, or carpeting.
Experiencing a house fire to any degree can be devastating. It can make you feel helpless, especially when it destroys your home and personal belongings with its presence in your home. Fortunately, the professionals at Rumsey Construction can help you through the entire fire damage cleanup process. They will ensure that you get the job done right and your home back to its former state.
