There are very few things in nature that can
cause as much devastation as a fire can. Fire can be especially devastating to
your home or business. When a fire damage disaster strikes your property and
after the fire trucks have left, your home or business likely suffers from
fire, smoke, and water damage. When it comes to a fire damage disaster the
first step you should take after the fire has been put out is to call a
restoration team as soon as possible, it is important to begin the restoration
process immediately. The professionals have specialized training in cleaning up
a fire, smoke odors and the extensive water
damage
left behind.
Why Should
You Hire a Professional?
Smoke and soot can be acidic and can cause
damage of its own on nearly any surface it comes in contact with. Textured and
porous surfaces are the most vulnerable to smoke and soot staining. Attempting
to clean up smoke and soot damage on your own could be disastrous. Not all
smoke and soot residue is created equally and the removal and cleanup process
varies for each type.
Types of
Smoke Residue
Dry Smoke – Residue from dry smoke occurs when
a fire is fast burning and at a very high temperature. This type of smoke
residue is typically powdery, dry, and causes very little smearing when
touched.
Wet Smoke – Residue from wet smoke occurs when
the fire is smoldering and at a low temperature. A wet smoke residue is sticky
and comes with a strong unpleasant smoke odor. Wet smoke residue smears easily
and can be difficult to clean up properly.
Protein Smoke – Protein smoke residue is
almost invisible and often causes discoloration in paints, varnishes, and other
finishes. This type of residue also has a very strong unpleasant smoke odor.
Oil Smoke Residue – Residue from fuel or oil
is usually found in fires that are caused by petroleum products. More commonly
this type of residue comes from furnace puff backs. This type of residue is
often sticky and difficult to remove or clean.
Once the fire
damage
cleanup professionals arrive they will assess the extent of the damage. This is
an important first step. Understanding the extent of the fire damage can help
the restoration company come up with a comprehensive plan of action that allows
them to clean and restore your property safely and efficiently all the while
providing you with an accurate quote for how much the process will cost.
Once the fire damage cleanup and repair
process begins in earnest, the professional’s main priority is to prevent any
additional damage while repairing the damage that has already been caused. Most
fire damage disaster will be followed by water damage from the efforts of
putting out the fire. If the excess moisture in your home isn’t dealt with in a
timely manner mold can start to grow, causing more damage and property loss.
Don’t risk your health, safety, and checkbook
by trying to perform fire and smoke damage cleanup and repair on your own.
Professionals have the proper training and equipment to perform the task
safely. ERX
Emergency Restoration
is certified and licensed to help with fire, smoke and soot damage.
