Dealing with the aftermath of a fire in your home can be incredibly stressful. If the damage is extensive, you’ll likely need to hire a fire restoration company to repair your home. Here’s an overview of what to expect when having fire restoration services completed.
Initial Assessment and Planning
The first step is a comprehensive assessment and documentation of the fire and smoke damage by the restoration technicians. They will examine the extent of the damage to your walls, floors, ceilings, furnishings and belongings to determine what can be restored vs replaced. You’ll discuss the plan of action and timeline, so you know what to anticipate.
Water Extraction and Drying
If the fire department needed to douse flames with water, the technicians would use specialty high-power extraction equipment and vacuums to remove any standing water. This helps eliminate excess moisture to prevent mold growth. Hardwood floors are dried using subfloor drying systems to gently draw out water from under the boards.
Deep Cleaning and Deodorizing
Next comes an intensive deep clean of all surfaces to remove soot, char, ash, and other fire residue. They use industrial-strength cleaners and deodorizers to sanitize and neutralize odors from smoke. Air scrubbers and dehumidifiers run 24/7 during the process to filter airborne particulates and moisture.
Structural Repairs and Rebuilding
Any damaged structural elements like walls, floors, and ceilings are repaired to restore stability and integrity up to code. Drywall, framing, and subflooring are replaced as needed. Holes cut by firefighters are patched. Cabinetry, trim, and hardware are also replaced if fire or smoke damaged. The goal is to bring everything back to a structurally sound state.
Contents Masking and Protection
To protect your valuables, restoration teams completely mask off furnishings, belongings, and appliances with protective plastic coverings before cleaning begins. This prevents further soot and ash contamination while cleaning air ducts, vents and interior spaces. All possessions can stay in place protected.
Painting, Finishes and Fixtures
Smoke stains and char marks are often left behind even after deep cleaning. Your technicians will repaint walls, ceilings, trim and doors to hide any remaining discoloration and restore your space. New carpet or flooring can also be installed if existing materials are not salvageable. Light fixtures are also replaced if needed.
HVAC and Electronics Restoration
Air ducts, fans, filters, and vents are thoroughly cleaned to remove particulates and improve indoor air quality after the fire. Any electronics exposed to smoke, like TVs, computers and appliances are also cleaned and deodorized to prevent long-term damage from particles.
Detailed Inventory Reporting
Throughout the process, you will receive detailed inventory reports on all items that were a complete loss, can be restored, or may require specialty restoration like drapes or furniture. This helps guide your insurance claim and replacement purchases.
Having fire restoration completed is a major undertaking, but the experts make the process as efficient and headache-free as possible. In just a few weeks, your home will look and smell like new again. Although it can’t undo the trauma, restoring your space helps provide closure. Visit Valley Restoration & Construction if you’re in need of fire restoration services. Read more interesting articles on Ebeak
