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6 Critical Steps in Fire Damage Restoration
2/23/2021 (Permalink)
Blog Summary: SERVPRO of Lakeway / Westlake discusses the six most critical steps involved in the fire damage restoration process.
Property fires are tragic, and deciding what to do next can feel overwhelming. In 2016 alone, Texas fire departments reported 73,528 fires and over $694 million in property loss. Due to the staggering amount of damage fire can cause to a property, effective fire damage restoration is extremely important.
There are six critical steps involved in fire damage restoration. Following them is key to reducing losses and restoring both residential and commercial properties.
6 Critical Steps in Fire Damage Restoration
#1: Contact a Fire Damage Restoration Professional
As soon as the fire is extinguished and everyone is safe, call a fire damage restoration company. Fire damage restoration is a major process—a responsive and knowledgeable team is an absolute must. They will provide the experience and advanced equipment necessary to restore the property to its pre-fire condition.
#2: Inspection and Assessment
After the flames have gone out, it's important to leave everything as is until the fire damage restoration team can perform an assessment. Everyone’s needs are unique, and a timely inspection is necessary to determine the extent of the damage. This inspection will help the restoration team develop the best plan for cleanup and repair.
#3: Secure the Property and Mitigate the Damage
Damage after a structure fire doesn't necessarily stop when the flames are out.
If the roof is damaged, it can leave the building exposed to the elements. Windows and doors might also be broken or compromised. Unfortunately, this can allow thieves or looters to access the property and take anything valuable left behind.
Fire damage restoration services include steps to mitigate the possibility of further damage after the fire. A specialist will secure the doors, board up windows, tarp the roof, and carry out other necessary repairs.
#4: Water Removal and Cleanup
Water does a great job putting out the fire, but it can often leave behind damage of its own. The right restoration company should be equipped to handle water damage and flood cleanup.
At the beginning of the fire damage restoration process, contractors use specialized equipment to remove most of the water. Then, they set up dehumidifiers and let everything else air dry.
#5: Clean and Sanitize
All restorable items damaged by the fire are professionally cleaned and scrubbed down. Techs remove soot, dust, and smoke from all surfaces, including walls, ceilings, air ducts, and furniture. They address unpleasant odors with industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.
#6: Repair and Restore
Lastly, the fire damage restoration team will work to return the residential or commercial property to its pre-fire condition. They repair and restore any damage done to the property, including installing new drywall and flooring if needed.
In some cases, full building restoration services may be required. That can include the complete reconstruction of rooms or other areas on the property.
Why SERVPRO
SERVPRO of Lakeway / Westlake in Beecave, TX, is committed to providing the best fire damage restoration services possible for commercial and residential properties alike.
Whether for fire damage restoration, water damage restoration, mold removal/remediation, or commercial cleaning services, SERVPRO can deliver. Call for 24-hour service at (512) 261-4790 or request help online today.
Contact Information:
SERVPRO of Lakeway / Westlake
Building – 5 Suite R-275
Bee Cave, TX 73738
www.SERVPROlakewaywestlake.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration